An Open Letter from Alica Schmidt to the IAAF, My Fans, and the Entire Sports Community
Dear IAAF, my amazing fans, and the global sports community,
As I pause to think on my trip, I am overwhelmed with thankfulness. Athletes are never alone on their journey, and I am grateful to the people and institutions who have supported, inspired, and believed in me throughout my career. Today, I’m writing to offer my deepest gratitude to everyone who has helped shape my experience as a professional athlete.
To the IAAF and other track and field governing bodies, thank you for fostering an environment in which athletes like myself may thrive. Your dedication to the sport, your tireless attempts to maintain ethics, and your commitment to developing high-level competition have enabled myself and countless others to pursue our aspirations. Because of your vision, I’ve had the opportunity to compete on some of the world’s biggest stages, push my limits, and grow as an athlete and a person.
You, my fans, are the heart and spirit of this trip. Your consistent support, applause from the spectators, and positive social media messages have given me strength. Whether in triumph or defeat, you’ve been by my side, reminding me why I fell in love with this sport in the first place. Knowing that my love of running has inspired so many of you gives me the greatest delight. You are the reason I push myself every day to improve, speed up, and gain strength.
To the sporting community—fellow athletes, coaches, trainers, and mentors—thank you for challenging me, pushing me to my limits, and demonstrating true dedication. The friendships, rivalries, and shared moments of triumph and tragedy have made this trip truly unique. It is an honour to be a member of a community that values hard effort, perseverance, and sportsmanship above all else.
This adventure is far from over, and I am thrilled to see what the future holds. But, no matter where my profession takes me, I will never forget the love, encouragement, and support that carried me this far. Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for making this dream possible.
With all my thanks,
Alica Schmidt