Elise Thorner, the talented runner from Langport, Somerset, has achieved a milestone in her athletic career by qualifying for the 3000m steeplechase final at the World Athletics Championships. With a brilliant performance, Thorner clocked a personal best time of 9 minutes 14.37 seconds to finish third in her heat, securing automatic progression to Wednesday’s final.
At just 24 years old, Elise is enjoying a breakthrough year after relocating back to the UK from the University of Florida. Now based in Manchester and coached by Helen Clitheroe, she has rapidly risen through the ranks. Last month, she claimed victory at the Novuna UK Athletics Championships with a record-breaking time — a clear sign of her outstanding form.
“This is what dreams are made of,” said an elated Thorner. “I didn’t expect to set a personal best in the heat, but my coach and I decided to approach it like a final. This is the World Championships, so we put everything into it. My last kilometer was really strong, which helped me achieve that PB. I’m really happy with how it all went.”
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Reflecting on her journey, she added, “If you had told me last year that I’d be here making a world final, I wouldn’t have believed it. I was eight seconds off the Olympic standard then and was devastated. Being here now means the world to me.”
Thorner will be Great Britain’s sole representative in the steeplechase final after her teammate Sarah Tait withdrew due to injury sustained during the heats. Despite this, Thorner remains focused on making the most of this opportunity.
Transitioning from university life, where she juggled academics and athletics, to a professional training environment has brought significant growth. “At university, there were so many distractions, but now I’m training with a group of experienced athletes who have taught me what it really means to be a pro. It’s a big adjustment, but I’ve also gained confidence from competing in two Diamond League events this year,” she said.
As she prepares for the final, Elise Thorner is embracing the challenge with determination and enthusiasm, ready to represent Great Britain on the world stage.