American middle and long distance runner, Weini Kelati believes American women’s distance running is entering a new era, one defined by strength, depth, and fearless racing.
Speaking after her runner-up finish at the 2025 Mastercard New York Mini 10K, Kelati reflected on the momentum building among U.S. distance runners.
“It’s been amazing in every event now we have some great runners,” she said. “It just makes me very excited to be a part of it, just to race with these women.”
Among the Americans that participated include; Susanna Sullivan, a full-time teacher who was the top American at the 2025 TCS London Marathon. She was also the 10th-fastest American woman marathoner in history.
There were young stars Taylor Roe, a two-time national champion who recently broke the women-only 10-mile world record in 49:53. Amanda Vestri, last year’s top American at the Mastercard New York Mini 10K.
The historic race, hosted by New York Road Runners in Central Park, saw nearly 10,000 women participate, including Olympians, World Championship medalists, and past marathon winners. Kelati’s time of 30:49 was the fastest ever by an American in the event’s history.
The Eritrean-born athlete finished just behind Kenya’s Hellen Obiri, who pulled away late to win in 30:44, completing a rare trifecta of NYC titles (United Airlines NYC Half, TCS NYC Marathon, and the Mini 10K).
Kelati, who led for large stretches of the race, was aggressive and confident throughout. A mindset she credited to growing strength in her training group and across the American circuit.
“When I know it’s going to go fast from the beginning, my confidence is up there. My job is to hang on and do what I can at the end,” she said.
She pointed out the depth in her Under Armour training group and the broader U.S. field, noting, “Our team is amazing whether it’s 1500m or marathon, they keep setting the bar high. I have to push myself to be part of it.”
Kelati`s Target
Reflecting on her own trajectory, Kelati said she is targeting the 10,000 meters at the upcoming U.S. Championships but hasn’t ruled out a 5K/10K double. She also hinted at the possibility of joining Team USA for the World Cross Country Championships. The championships is set to be held on home soil in early 2026. “At first I wasn’t thinking about it,” she said, “but now I feel like – why not?”
