Emily Sisson and I have something in common, and it’s not just the fact that we both love endurance sports. Emily is an extraordinary long-distance runner and an alumna of Parkway Central High School in Chesterfield, Missouri – which I also graduated from, class of 1977!
Emily’s impressive athletic prowess has earned her a spot in the 2024 Summer Olympics after her performance at the U.S. Olympic Trials, where she finished second with a time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 42 seconds. First-place winner Fiona O’Keeffe, along with third-place Dakotah Lindwurm, will also represent Team USA in Paris.
Most of you may be aware that I have a strong affinity for climbing and athletics. I thrive on seeking out challenges and embarking on expeditions to remarkable summits like Capitol Peak and Kilimanjaro. My greatest passion lies in being on the precipice of a cliff, and so I feel immense pride for these athletes who have achieved such a fantastic feat.
I think many people can agree that a lot of people are born runners, and this was also the case with Emily. Her passion for running began in her childhood, and she competed on several high school teams in Nebraska before transferring to Parkway Central. Emily earned two cross-country state titles at our alma mater. She later ran for Providence College and became a two-time NCAA champion, setting a collegiate indoor record for women in the 5000-meter race.
Through various half-marathons and marathon events, Emily has proven her power as a formidable opponent and athlete. She even set the North American record of 2:18:29 in October 2022 when she finished second at the Chicago Marathon. With so much potential and opportunity on her horizon, I cannot wait to see what records Emily continues to shatter and what she is able to accomplish as an outstanding athlete.
The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be the largest event ever organized in France and will take place from July 26th to August 11th, 2024 – what an exciting, historic moment.
I am cheering you on, Emily and Team USA!
