The Oceania Area will be well represented when the World Cross Country Championships get underway in the United States, with athletes set to take on the demanding Tallahassee (USA) course, with a few surprises along the way and maybe some alligators!
Australia arrives in Florida with depth across every race, led by a strong mixed 4 x 2km relay squad. Olympic medallist Jessica Hull headlines the team after Australia claimed bronze at the 2023 Championships in Bathurst.
Individually, Australia fields competitive senior men’s and women’s teams over the 10km distance. World Indoor medallist Ky Robinson continues his rise on the global stage following a standout 2025 season, while reigning Australian 10,000m champion Lauren Ryan returns to familiar ground at Florida State University as alumni. Australia will also contest the under 20 men’s 8km and women’s 6km races, highlighting the strength of the emerging pathway.
New Zealand’s team combines experience and emerging talent across all age groups. Nine athletes will line up in the senior 10km events, led by national cross country champions Connor Melton and Hannah Gapes. Both arrive in strong form after dominant domestic performances.
New Zealand’s junior distance running continues to break records, make headlines and show the growing pathway of runners. The Kiwi under 20 athletes looking to build on recent progress on the international stage. The mixed 4 x 2km relay team brings together rising talents Christian De Vaal and Boh Ritchie, supported by experienced campaigners David Lee and Tillie Hollyer.
Across the Pacific, athletes continue to make their presence felt on the world stage. From the Northern Mariana Islands, Nash Victor Maniego Santos and Tania Tan arrive after a busy year that saw multiple national records fall at the Pacific Mini Games. Guam’s Hugh Kent also returns to the World Cross Country Championships following a breakthrough season and a record breaking run in Palau.
Fiji’s team is led by Yeshnil Karan, who continues to raise the standard for Fijian distance running, alongside Benjamin Ashkettle making his return to the World Cross Country course. Papua New Guinea will be represented by Dilu Goiye Bob and Monica Kalua, while French Polynesia sends Louise Grosgogeat and Felice Covillon after strong domestic performances.
With a mix of established stars, emerging juniors, Oceania’s athletes will be ready to take on the Tallahassee course on January 10.
Full Athlete list here:
First Race begins at 9:45am local time
How to watch: worldathletics.org/watch/live LIVE AND FREE!
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