Welteji, Hughes ready to race against the best at Grand Slam Track

Ethiopia’s rising star, Diribe Welteji and Britain’s 100m and 200m record holder, Zharnel Hughes have declared their readiness to race against the best when Michael Johnson’s Grand Slam Track debuts next year.

The duo and three others were unveiled Thursday to complete the final list of 48 racers signed on for the race which starts in Kingston, Jamaica in April.

Welteji, 22, who holds the world record in the road mile (4:20.98) and won a silver medal in the 1500m at the 2023 World Championships says every race provides her with an opportunity to push her limits like she did when she set the Mile world record at the 2023 World Athletics Road Running Championships in Riga.

‘Every race is an opportunity to push my limits and inspire the next generation of runners. I’m grateful for the support of my family, coaches, and fans, and I’m excited to continue making strides in my career.

‘With the launch of Grand Slam Track, I’m eager to compete against the world’s best and elevate the sport of middle-distance running, whilst representing Ethiopia on the biggest stage,’ Welteji told Grand Slam Track’s official website.

Hughes who has won four gold medals at the European Athletics Championships in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m (twice) respectively and was also a bronze medalist at the 2023 World Athletics Championships in Budapest last year says he wants to be the best in the world and feels the Grand Slam Track has offered him that stage to show how good he can be.

‘I’m driven by the desire to be the best, to inspire others, and to leave a lasting legacy. The future of our sport is bright, and with the global popularity of track, I think now is the right time to join Grand Slam Track. I can’t wait to get started, and bring my speed to all four Slams.

‘I look forward to seeing the other Racers on the track, and finding out who the fastest of all is,’ said Hughes.