Professional athlete Ben Preisner is making a comeback at the Canadian cross-country championships in London, Ont., seeking a refreshing change from his usual marathon training routine. He is gearing up to face tough competition from renowned runners like three-time U Sports champion Philippe Morneau-Cartier, local favorites Phil Parrot-Migas, and Connor Black, the reigning national champion.
Notably, Preisner is intrigued by the late entry of Moh Ahmed, Canada’s highly decorated distance runner. Ahmed, who faced setbacks in the 2025 track season due to a left calf injury, is set to test his limits at the open men’s 10-kilometer race on Saturday at Fanshawe Golf Course. The challenging two km loop course features grass terrain with rolling hills and technical obstacles like jumping over hay bales.
Preisner acknowledges the level playing field that cross-country offers, where track speed doesn’t always translate to success on grass and mud. Despite Ahmed’s impressive track record, Preisner remains optimistic about the competition and anticipates a closely contested race, especially in the latter stages.
Ahmed’s return to competitive racing after a long hiatus adds an element of excitement to the event. The top finishers, including Ahmed, stand a chance to qualify for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Fla., on Jan. 10. Preisner, who is eyeing a potential return to the cross-country world stage, is approaching the race with a relaxed mindset, aiming to enjoy the unique racing experience and assess his performance.
As Preisner and Ahmed gear up for the challenging cross-country event, the anticipation among fans and fellow athletes is palpable. With Ahmed’s talent and Preisner’s determination, the Canadian cross-country championships promise an exhilarating showcase of athletic prowess and competitive spirit.