Nikki Hiltz, an American transgender middle-distance runner, made history by qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the women’s 1500m final with a record-breaking time of 3:55.53. This achievement surpassed the previous record set by Elle St. Pierre at 3:58.03 during the 2021 track and field trials. Hiltz expressed her emotions in an Instagram post, stating how a childhood dream had come true in Eugene, Oregon. She expressed gratitude for the love and support she received and the joy of getting to race alongside people she deeply cares about.
Hiltz’s success will be celebrated not only as a personal achievement but also as a triumph for the LGBTQ community. She highlighted the significance of her achievement for her community, stating that it was especially meaningful to run on Pride Month’s last day.
“I feel so honored to represent my community,” said Hiltz in an interview with ESPN. “It’s important to me that people know that we can achieve great things too.”
Looking ahead to the Olympics, Hiltz is joined by Emily Mackay and St. Pierre who finished second and third respectively with times of 3:55.90 and 3:55.99.
As they prepare for their first Olympic Games together, Hiltz emphasizes teamwork and support in achieving athletic excellence.
“We all have our own strengths and weaknesses,” said Hiltz during training camp, “But when we work together as a team, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.”
The women’s 1500m event is scheduled to begin on August 6th at 4:05 a.m Eastern Time, giving fans around the world an opportunity to witness history being made.
Hiltz is excited about representing her community at this global stage and acknowledges that it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get here.
“I couldn’t have done this without my family, friends, coaches, and fans who have supported me along the way,” she said in an interview with CNN. “This is just one step towards achieving my dreams.”
