Nikki Hiltz, a transgender middle-distance runner from the United States, 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, and Hiltz expressed their gratitude and joy for achieving a childhood dream in an Instagram post. They also reflected on the support they received from their community, which played a crucial role in fueling them through the final stretch.
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 credited St. Pierre with inspiring women’s distance running. They also highlighted how their team’s collective effort enabled them to rise above challenges and achieve success together.
The women’s 1500m event at the Olympics is scheduled to start on August 6th at 4:05 a.m. ET, marking a momentous occasion for Hiltz, Mackay, and St. Pierre as they represent their country and showcase their talent on an international stage.