Transgender and nonbinary athlete Nikki Hiltz has smashed the qualifying time to make the US Olympic Team
A transgender and nonbinary runner has smashed a record time on their way to qualifying for the US Olympic Track Team.
Nikki Hiltz who identifies using the pronouns they/them will be on the plane to Paris after winning the 1500m trial race in Oregon.
Hiltz clocked a final 1500m time of 3:55.33 at Hayward Field, which obliterated Elle St. Pierre’s previous U.S. trials record of 3:58.03, set in 2021.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The celebrations began straight after crossing the line with the 29-year-old’s partner and fellow track and field runner Emma Gee.
“This is bigger than just me. It’s the last day of Pride Month. I wanted to run this one for my community,’’ Hiltz said.
Hiltz took to social media to announce to the world they had achieved a lifelong dream.
“Yesterday afternoon in Eugene Oregon a childhood dream of mine came true. I’m not sure when this will fully sink in … All I know is today I’m waking up just so grateful for my people, overwhelmed by all the love and support, and filled with joy that I get to race people I deeply love and respect around a track for a living.”
On Instagram, Gee, who was the first LGBTQ student-athlete at Brigham Young University, shared photos and said: “So many years in the making … what an incredible journey & performance. You belong anywhere you decide to be.”
