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Runners misdirected in US half-marathon get World Championships spots

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Key Points
  • Runners misdirected in a US half-marathon in Atlanta will compete in the World Championships this fall.
  • World Athletics allowed the US to enter seven runners, with four eligible for medals and prize money.
  • The World Championships are in Copenhagen in September, where athletes may face Carolina Wikström.

Runners who were misdirected in the US half-marathon championship in Atlanta earlier this month will receive spots in the World Championships this fall. World Athletics has made a rare decision to allow the US to compete with seven runners in the championships in Copenhagen in September, as the Atlanta race was a qualifier. 4 kilometers before the finish have already been compensated with prize money.

However, USA Track & Field must select which four will compete for medals and prize money, while three will only start and record a time and placement. World Athletics stated it showed sympathy for the affected athletes and understanding for the unprecedented situation faced by USA Track & Field. In Copenhagen, they may compete against Carolina Wikström, who is skipping the European Championships in August due to a scheduling conflict with her wedding day, as she hopes to qualify for the half-marathon World Championships.

World Athletics stated it showed sympathy for the affected athletes and understanding for the unprecedented situation faced by USA Track & Field.

World Athletics, International governing body for athletics

The World Road Running Championships will be held in Copenhagen on September 19-20.

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