Nikki Hiltz, a 29-year-old American transgender middle-distance runner, made history by qualifying for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris after winning the women’s 1,500-meter final at the U.S. Olympic track & field trials in Eugene, Oregon.
Hiltz’s record-breaking performance of 3:55.33 surpassed Elle St. Pierre’s 2021 U.S. trials record of 3:58:03 and also marked the second fastest time ever recorded by an American in that race. This accomplishment is particularly significant since it occurred on the last day of Pride Month, making Hiltz’s victory a triumph for the LGBTQ community.
Hiltz uses they/them pronouns and has been a strong advocate for inclusivity and representation in sports, having publicly announced their gender fluidity on International Transgender Day of Visibility in 2021. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, Hiltz’s achievement serves as a powerful symbol of visibility and acceptance.
Hiltz will be joined by fellow American runners Emily Mackay and Elle St. Pierre in Paris, with the Olympic Games scheduled to commence on July 26, 2024.
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