2023 was an incredible year for Track & Field. Here are our top 3 moments!
As we flip the page to a new year on the calendar and as the cheers of the crowds fade into memories, we find ourselves at the end of a remarkable journey – the 2023 track and field season. A season full of incredible memories and one that added an incredible chapter in our sports history books. It wasn't just about breaking records or crossing finish lines; it was about passion, perseverance, and the resounding echo of extraordinary achievements. As we take a retrospective glance at the past 12 months, it becomes abundantly clear that the 2023 track and field season wasn't merely a series of competitions; it was an unfolding narrative of triumphs, heartaches, and moments that will be etched in the minds of both athletes and spectators for years to come. To relive some of the brightest achievements we have selected our top 3 moments for 2023!
3rd place | Indoor 3000m World Record
It was Lamecha Girma from Ethiopia who started 2023 off with a bang during the Meeting International Lievin. Girma smashed the indoor world record in a time of 7:23.81. Taking a full 1.09 seconds of the previous world record! Paced by Wavelight, Girma was able to execute his plan flawlessly. His race was a sign for what was still to come as his achievements reached its pinnacle in June 2023 at the Meeting de Paris of the Diamond League, where Lamecha Girma shattered the outdoor world record for the men's 3,000 meters steeplechase as well, solidifying his status as a true icon in the world of track and field.
Reflecting on his triumph, Girma credited his success to good preparation and the flawless coordination of the Wavelight system. "I am thrilled with this result. The pacers and Wavelight were perfect – it all clicked.” said Girma.
2nd place | World record attack during the Bowerman Mile in Eugene
In the electrifying showdown of the Pre Classic Bowerman Mile, fans witnessed a spectacle that will be remembered for a long time. Jakob Ingebrigtsen, the Norwegian sensation, blazed through the track with unrelenting speed, crossing the finish line in a breath-taking 3:43.73. It was a mere whisper away from the world record of 3:43.13, a testament to Ingebrigtsen's relentless pursuit of excellence. Hot on his heels was Yared Nuguse who surged to the finish line in an exceptional time of 3:43.97. Etching his name in the American record books. The Pre Classic Bowerman Mile unfolded as a thrilling chapter with a display of sheer brilliance on the track. The Wavelight world record pace beat Ingebrigtsen to the finish line by just 0.60 seconds this time around. But trust us when we say that we cannot wait to be beat to the finish behind this legend next time around!
1st place | Faith Kipyegon’s world record spree
Although never easy to choose a winner from so many incredible performances, in our minds it was Faith Kipyegon's triumphant reign of record-breaking brilliance that deserves this honour for 2023! Crowned as our Top Moment of 2023, Faith Kipyegon's awe-inspiring journey unfolded with three consecutive World Records in the 1500m, mile, and 5000m events, rewriting the Diamond League history books with unprecedented benchmarks. The sheer audacity of her achievements, under the guiding light of the Wavelight system, was nothing short of mind-blowing. Each stride, each lap, marked a testament to Kipyegon's pursuit of perfection and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of athletic excellence. Her extraordinary feats not only showcased individual brilliance but also solidified a legacy that will resonate across the globe, inspiring generations to come. Take a bow Faith, you blew our minds!
Ready for 2024
With a wrap on 2023 we are so excited for the year ahead. Wavelight is ready to pace the world’s greatest athletes in stadiums around the world once more, as the legends of our sport will chase new great heights in this Olympic year! But the beauty of sports is that it’s for all of us, no matter what level we compete on. So do you want to experience what it’s like to race or train with Wavelight? Get in touch with our team and learn what options there are for your team, club track or stadium to add the ultimate training tool to your track of boost the fan engagement at your event!