Nikki Hiltz, an American transgender middle-distance runner, has made history by qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the women’s 1500m final with a record-breaking time of 3:55.53. In an Instagram post, Hiltz expressed gratitude and joy for achieving a childhood dream and thanked their community for their support. They will be making their first Olympic appearance alongside Emily Mackay and Elle St. Pierre, forming a strong team heading to Paris.
Hiltz had already won a silver medal in the 1500m at the Indoor World Championships earlier in the year and is now looking forward to representing their country at the Olympics. In an interview with NBC, Hiltz emphasized the importance of running the race for the LGBTQ community and the love and support that fueled them through the final stretch. They also highlighted the impact of St. Pierre on women’s distance running and credited the entire team for collectively rising to the challenge.
The women’s 1500m event at the Olympics is scheduled to start on August 6th at 4:05 a.m. ET. It will be a momentous occasion for Hiltz, Mackay, and St. Pierre as they represent their country and showcase their talent on the international stage.
