"2023 started well.
Yesterday I won the Ethiopian qualifier for the off-road WC.
From now on, I will focus on the cross-country world championships in Australia next month,” writes Gidey on Instagram.
The qualifier was decided in Sululta north of the capital Addis Ababa on demanding tracks.
With a kilometer to go in the 10km course, Gidey made the push and was able to win in 35.22, suggesting the conditions were demanding (her 10,000m world record stands at 29.01.03).
Only the victories secured WC places
Reigning Ethiopian champion Gete Alemayehu was second – 19 seconds behind and World Cup 3,000m steeplechase bronze medalist Mekides Abebe third.
Berihu Aregawi won the men's class on the same course with a time of 30.45, defending his title from last year.
A number of famous runners were defeated.
Ethiopia is known for its tough qualifying conditions.
Only the victories have secured the WC places in Bathurst, Australia, February 18.
The town is a bit inland as seen from Sydney on the east coast.