Australian teenage middle-distance sensation Cameron Myers has secured the most significant triumph of his burgeoning career, defeating a star-studded field to claim victory in the prestigious Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games indoor meet in New York.
A Breakthrough Performance on the Global Stage
Myers, aged just 19, made his decisive move with 300 metres remaining in the feature race, surging to the front and maintaining his composure to cross the finish line in an impressive time of three minutes and 47.57 seconds.
The Canberra-born runner outpaced three-time defending Wanamaker Mile champion Yared Nuguse, who is also the 2024 Olympic 1500m bronze medallist. Nuguse finished second with a time of 3:48.31, while fellow American competitor Hobbs Kessler secured third place.
Building Momentum with Consecutive Wins
This landmark victory marks Myers' third consecutive major race win in the United States. Following this successful campaign, the young athlete will return to Australia to complete an intensive training block, further honing his skills and fitness.
"I think it's the biggest win of my career," Myers reflected after the race. "This and the 3K last week are probably the big ones for me. I'm off to a better start than last year; I know I'm in a better spot."
Strategic Patience and Steady Development
Myers emphasised his philosophy of measured progress, stating, "It's just about another year of development. I really don't try and rush things; I just let it come to me. I know I'm getting faster, I know I'm getting anaerobically fitter."
He added a thoughtful perspective on athletic progression, noting, "Everyone is on a different trajectory and progression is never going to be linear."
Joining Elite Australian Company
With this victory, Myers joins an exclusive club of Australian athletes who have conquered the Wanamaker Mile. The only other Australian to achieve this feat is Olli Hoare, who claimed the title in 2022.
Myers' career has been marked by remarkable early achievements, including setting multiple junior world records. However, he experienced significant disappointment at last year's world championships in Tokyo, where he was eliminated in the 1500m heats.
A Shift in Competitive Mindset
That setback appears to have catalysed a shift in Myers' approach to competition. "I've switched my mentality to just try and win things because people can't take those away from you," he explained following his New York triumph.
"Medals are what we do it for. It's great that the last three races I've done I've managed to win them."
Making History as a Young Champion
Myers' victory carries additional historical significance. He becomes the youngest winner of the Wanamaker Mile since Marty Liquori claimed the title in 1969. Liquori was just weeks older than Myers is currently when he achieved his victory over five decades ago.
In the women's Wanamaker Mile event, Australian star Jessica Hull delivered a strong performance, finishing in second place after being outkicked by American athlete Nikki Hiltz in the final stages of the race.
