The Prefontaine Classic in Eugene opened its 50th anniversary edition with a dramatic men’s 10,000-metre race that doubled as Kenya’s World Championships trial. Ethiopia swept the podium in a blanket finish, as Biniam Mehary prevailed over Berihu Aregawi and Olympic champion Selemon Barega. Edwin Kurgat crossed fourth to lead the Kenyan contingent, while NCAA champion Ishmael Kipkurui clipped his personal best to 26:47.72 for fifth, securing the second Kenyan berth for Tokyo 2025. Former U.S. trials winner Conner Mantz was 12th in 27:35.22, and Tatyana McFadden claimed the women’s 800-metre T54 title. Off the track, Nike accelerated its talent drive, unveiling multiyear agreements with three rising distance runners. NCAA indoor 3,000-metre record-holder Ethan Strand and Kipkurui have joined the newly formed Swoosh Track Club under coach Mike Smith, while Polish Olympic 1,500-metre finalist Klaudia Kazimierska will train in Oregon with Jerry Schumacher’s group. Strand and Kipkurui debuted in Nike colours at Hayward Field, where further Kenyan and Ethiopian showdowns were scheduled in the women’s 5,000 metres later in the session.