Four World Championships Medalists Highlight Elite Fields at New Balance 5th Avenue Mile

By Adam Kopet

The New Balance 5th Avenue Mile unofficially marks the end of the summer track season every year.

This year's elite fields, just released, include four medalists from the IAAF World Outdoor Championships in London.

On the men's side, Filip Ingebrigtsen of Norway is an early favorite. He won the bronze medal in the 1,500 meters at the World Championships, running 3:34.53.

Also running is New Zealand's Nick Willis, a two time Olympic 1,500 medalist. He is only just rounding into form after hernia surgery last fall and shin splints through the spring as he explained after the World Championships 1,500 final in this video.

Not to be forgotten is the defending champion, Eric Jenkins. He raced the 5,000 at the World Championships, but did not qualify for the final. Jenkins will be attempting to be the first men's repeat champion since 1998.

The men's field will also include Edward Cheserek. The former Oregon standout is making his professional debut in New York.

The women's field is led by World Championships 1,500 silver medalist and defending champion Jenny Simpson. She has won a record five 5th Avenue Miles and will be looking to extend her streak to six.

Also in the field are World Championships gold and silver medalists in the steeplechase, Emma Coburn and Courtney Frerichs. They did what seemed impossible in London and will be dropping down in distance to end their seasons.