The vibrant blue banner of Fiji’s flag was proudly displayed at the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships, which commenced yesterday in Tallahassee, Florida. The flag-bearers, long-distance runners Yeshnil Karan and Ben Ashkettle, represented their country by competing in the senior men’s 10km race, which consisted of five laps on a challenging two-kilometer circuit.
Karan finished the race in 83rd place with a time of 32 minutes and 55 seconds, while Ashkettle crossed the line in 111th place, clocking in at 37 minutes and 7 seconds. Both athletes’ race performances showcased their endurance and determination, as they navigated through difficult terrain designed to test their physical and mental limits.
Karan’s race saw him improve steadily, moving from 104th at the 1km mark to 83rd by the end. His intermediate splits demonstrate a strong effort as he built momentum and tackled each lap. Ashkettle, returning to competitive racing after a break, likewise exhibited a commendable effort, culminating in a respectable finish despite the challenging conditions.
While Karan made his championship debut, Ashkettle brought a wealth of experience to the race, having previously set personal bests in numerous long-distance track events. His accolades include a 10,000m personal best of 28:52.72, achieved in 2010, and impressive times in other events such as the half marathon and the 3000m steeplechase.
Karan’s recent performances highlight his progression in athletics, showcasing personal bests across various distances. He first gained recognition at the 2019 Coca-Cola Games, where he clinched gold in the senior boys 1500m final, marking the beginning of a promising career.
Their participation in this prestigious event is not only a testament to their individual talents but also a source of pride for Fiji, as they gather support from their families, friends, fellow athletes, and sports enthusiasts back home. This occasion underscores the growing presence of Fiji in international athletics, as both athletes continue to inspire future generations of runners.