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The 2025 World Athletics Championships feature a variety of events, with highlights including the men's and women's 35-kilometer race walks. Notable athletes like Evan Dunfee and Maria Perez have already claimed gold medals in these events. Other key competitions include the men's steeplechase, women's discus, and men's shot put, showcasing a broad range of track and field disciplines.
The weather in Tokyo has posed significant challenges, particularly with high humidity impacting athletes' performances. Organizers adjusted event start times to mitigate heat effects, especially for race walking and marathon events. Athletes have expressed concerns about competing under such conditions, which can lead to dehydration and fatigue.
Key athletes to watch include Evan Dunfee, who won gold in the men's 35km race walk, and Maria Perez, the defending champion from Spain. Other notable competitors are Noah Lyles and Letsile Tebogo in sprints, and Josh Kerr, who aims to defend his 1500m title. The championships also feature rising stars and established legends, making for an exciting competition.
The World Athletics Championships, first held in 1983, is a premier global track and field event organized by World Athletics. It occurs every two years, with the 2025 edition marking a return to Tokyo, which last hosted the event in 1991. The championships have evolved, showcasing the world's best athletes and serving as a platform for records and rivalries.
Race walking is distinct from running in that one foot must be in contact with the ground at all times, and the leading leg must be straightened as it makes contact. These rules create a unique technique and pacing strategy. Events range from shorter distances to the 50km walk, requiring endurance and precision in form.
Gene testing for female athletes, as discussed by World Athletics chief Sebastian Coe, aims to ensure fair competition by identifying genetic advantages. The testing focuses on specific genes that may influence performance, particularly in events with strict gender categories. This initiative is part of broader efforts to maintain integrity in athletics.
Doping can significantly enhance athletic performance by increasing strength, endurance, and recovery rates. It undermines fair competition and can lead to severe health risks. The Athletics Integrity Unit actively monitors and enforces anti-doping regulations, as seen in the case of Diribe Welteji, who was suspended due to a doping investigation.
Ukrainian athletes contend with unique challenges due to the ongoing conflict in their country. The federation president noted that competing at the world stage is particularly difficult, as every achievement is a testament to their resilience. Many athletes have had to train under difficult conditions, and their participation symbolizes hope and determination.
Competing in high heat and humidity can lead to several health risks, including heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heat stroke. Athletes may struggle with performance due to increased fatigue and reduced endurance. Organizers have adjusted event schedules to mitigate these risks, emphasizing the importance of athlete safety in extreme conditions.
Past Olympics, especially the Tokyo 2020 Games, have shaped the current World Athletics Championships by highlighting the need for safety and crowd management. The experience of being shut out from the stadium during the pandemic has intensified fans' enthusiasm and engagement this year, making the championships a highly anticipated event.
