As the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix blew the bugle, the athletes could feel the tension rising. Only one athlete atop the podium in each category at the end of the day, after all. On their run for the Paris Olympics 2024, the stellar athletes have kicked off their power displays already. But are the US men and women the only ones making headlines? No.

Inarguably, 2023 was a magical year for the US track stars. But it looks like they have to toil more to make their mark in all the long-distance running categories. 1500m saw Hobbs Kessler crush GB world champion Jake Wightman’s winning streak. But the 1000m feat can’t speak in the same voice.

The New Balance Indoor Grand Prix has an undefeatable Canadian phenom

Marco Arop, the middle-distance event specialist, didn’t let any of his US rivals capture the pole position. Finishing with a record time of 2:14.74, Arop has left rival Bryce Hoppel in silver and Sam Ellis in bronze. But the other two US icons, Josh Hoey and Nate Green, finished fourth and seventh, respectively. In a sport that requires maximum dexterity, even one second can be a game-changer. Being mindful at all times has helped athletes gain momentum in their careers. And the best example today was of Arop, who didn’t let anybody come in between him and his dreams.

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Primarily inclined towards basketball, Arop shifted his focus to track in the later years. His Indoor debut was at the World Athletics Indoor Championships, which marked the start of a stellar racing career.

Clocking 1:43.24  at the 2023 Xiamen Diamond League event, he had set a new personal best time. Always neck-to-neck with the Kenyan icon Wanyonyi, the 800m champ may have a new favorite category now. Thanks to the New Balance Indoor Grand Prix.

READ MORE: Stanford Track and Field Team Celebrates Big With Triple Top 5 Finishes at USA Olympic Marathon Trials

Keeping his mother as his role model has always played in his favor. After his WC win, he had said, “I’ve witnessed it and to see her overcome these challenges and still come out with a smile and be her best self, I think in my eyes she’s the hardest working person, she inspires me in so many aspects of my life.” Set his sights on the Paris Olympics titles. Arop’s show will be one-of-a-kind.

Watch this story: Noah Lyles Is All In, Rooting for the $155m Esports Giants at Worlds 2023