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Emma Bates, a 2010 graduate of Elk River High School, finished fifth in Monday's Boston Marathon. Bates became the top American finisher at the 2023 Boston Marathon and ran her way to a qualifying time for the 2024 Paris Olympics Marathon.
Bates ran a time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 10 seconds, a personal best that met the Olympic standard for next year's Olympics. To qualify for the Olympics as a marathoner, Bates will have to compete at the U.S. Olympic marathon trials next February.
Related: Former Elk River Standout Emma Bates Finishes 7th at World
Bates took the lead in the women's marathon at the 25-kilometer mark leading the field of elite world marathoners. Bates dropped behind the leaders at the 24-mile mark, but from there on was in sole possession of 5th place.
Bates was a 2010 graduate of Elk River High School. While there, she was a five-time all-state runner in cross country. She was state cross country runner-up by less than a second in 2009, almost beating Maria Hauger at the finish her senior year when she led the Elks to the 2009 state championship.
Related: Emma: An Inside Look with Pro Runner Emma Bates
She also medaled several times in track in the 1600 and 3200. She almost won the 1600 in her final prep race, leading down the last straightway before three girls passed her at the end.
Bates was also an NCAA Champion in the 10,000 meters for Boise State. At the end of her collegiate career she was a 12x All-American for Boise.
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