Ceili McCabe eager to make an impact in her World Championship debut
Canada's up-and-coming 3,000m steeplechase star recently won her first national title and is now set to take on the world's best in Eugene
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West Virginia Athletics
In her Canadian senior championship debut, Vancouver’s Ceili McCabe rose to the occasion in a tactical women’s 3,000m steeplechase to secure a spot on Team Canada for the upcoming World Championships.
McCabe, 20, won the national title in a personal best time of 9:30.69 in front of her friends and family. Going into the race, McCabe was not worried about time or place. “I knew if I could win the race, there was a good chance I would be selected,” McCabe says.
Eight months ago, McCabe was battling an injury after her dominant XC season with West Virginia University. “Looking back, I couldn’t even imagine being in this position,” says McCabe.
In preparation for June’s NCAA Championship and nationals, McCabe and her coach, Sean Cleary, were focused on staying consistent as possible. “Training for the steeple is similar to training for cross-country,” she says. “We’ve been doing a lot of fartlek speed training and mileage.”
“I am very excited to put on the Canadian singlet,” says McCabe. “It’s rewarding to be able to make a national team.” She will have the home-field advantage in Eugene, as she has run at the prestigious Hayward Field on several occasions in the NCAA.
“My goal is to make the final,” says McCabe. “I am looking forward to being a part of such a big track meet and cheering on Team Canada.”
She will look to continue her trend of great performances in the women’s 3,000m steeplechase heats on Saturday, July 16.
The 2022 World Athletics Championships are set to begin on Friday, July 15, from Hayward Field in Eugene, Ore. Follow Canadian Running on Twitter on Instagram for all things Team Canada and up-to-date exclusive news and content.
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