Team GB Announces Marathon Athletes for 2024 Olympics

In a momentous announcement, Charlotte Purdue, Calli Hauger-Thackery, and Phil Sesemann have been selected as the first three marathon athletes to represent Team GB at the upcoming 2024 Olympics in Paris. This marks a significant milestone in their athletic careers as they prepare to make their Olympic debut on the grand stage of international competition.

The trio of athletes will showcase their endurance and prowess in the women’s and men’s marathon events, with Purdue and Hauger-Thackery set to compete in the women’s race, while Sesemann will participate in the men’s event. Their selection underscores their exceptional performances and dedication to the sport, earning them the opportunity to represent their country on the global stage.

As the excitement builds for the Games scheduled to take place between 26 July and 11 August, Team GB’s Olympic head coach, Paula Dunn, expressed her support for the athletes’ preparations. Acknowledging their outstanding achievements, Dunn emphasized the importance of providing unwavering support to ensure they are primed for success in Paris.

Purdue, aged 32, and Hauger-Thackery, aged 31, clinched their spots on the Olympic team by demonstrating remarkable prowess, each recording a time of two hours, 22 minutes, and 17 seconds at separate marathons held in 2023. Their consistent performance and dedication to their craft have earned them the honor of representing their nation on the Olympic stage.

Sesemann, also 31 years old, secured his place on the team with an impressive showing at the Seville marathon on 18 February, completing the race in a commendable time of two hours, eight minutes, and four seconds, comfortably meeting the qualification standard set by the Olympic committee.

Mark England, the Chef de Mission for Team GB, extended a warm welcome to Purdue, Hauger-Thackery, and Sesemann, emphasizing the significance of their Olympic debut. With anticipation building for the prestigious event, England expressed confidence in the athletes’ ability to rise to the occasion and tackle the unique challenges posed by the historic marathon route in Paris.

As the countdown to the 2024 Olympics begins, all eyes will be on Charlotte Purdue, Calli Hauger-Thackery, and Phil Sesemann as they embark on their Olympic journey, representing Team GB with pride, determination, and unwavering resolve.