The vibrant blue banner of Fiji’s flag was proudly displayed at the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships, which kicked off yesterday in Tallahassee, Florida. Representing their country, long-distance runners Yeshnil Karan and Ben Ashkettle competed in the senior men’s 10km race, which comprised five laps on a challenging two-kilometer circuit.
Karan finished the race in 83rd place, clocking in at 32 minutes and 55 seconds, while Ashkettle crossed the line in 111th place with a time of 37 minutes and 7 seconds. Both athletes demonstrated remarkable endurance and determination as they navigated the grueling terrain designed to push their physical and mental boundaries.
Karan showed a strong finish, moving up from 104th place at the 1km mark to 83rd at the end, indicating his tenacity and ability to build momentum throughout the race. Ashkettle, making his return to competitive racing, also displayed impressive resilience, achieving a respectable finish despite the tough conditions.
This championship marked Karan’s debut at such a prestigious level. Meanwhile, Ashkettle brought a wealth of experience, having previously recorded personal bests in various long-distance track events. Notably, he achieved a personal best of 28:52.72 in the 10,000m back in 2010 and has also excelled in events like the half marathon and the 3000m steeplechase.
Karan’s recent performances reflect a promising trajectory in his athletic career, highlighted by his gold medal win in the senior boys 1500m final at the 2019 Coca-Cola Games. Both athletes’ participation in the championships not only showcases their individual skills but also serves as a significant source of pride for Fiji, rallying support from families, friends, fellow athletes, and sports enthusiasts back home. Their involvement in this prestigious event underscores Fiji’s growing presence in international athletics, continuing to inspire aspiring runners for generations to come.