Izabelle Trefts and Katie Burnett from The Evergreen State College will represent the U.S. at the 2026 Caixa World Athletics Race Walking Team Championships on April 12 in Brasilia, Brazil. Trefts will compete in the half marathon while Burnett will take part in the full marathon event, marking the first time the Championships will occur in the Southern Hemisphere. Both athletes have achieved significant milestones, with Trefts being a national champion and record holder. Head Coach Joel Pearson expressed pride in their accomplishments and the goal of qualifying for Team USA. The competition features 333 athletes from 40 countries across various race walking events.

By the Numbers
  • 333 athletes participating from 40 countries.
  • 114 women and 140 men competing in marathon and half marathon categories.
Yes, But

While Trefts and Burnett have qualified for the U.S. teams, the competition will be fierce with numerous international athletes vying for medals, highlighting the challenge ahead.

State of Play
  • Trefts qualified by finishing second at the Half Marathon Race Walk World Team Trials on March 8.
  • Burnett secured her spot with a second-place finish at the Marathon Race Walking Championships on January 11.
What's Next

The championships will provide both Trefts and Burnett a platform to showcase their skills on an international stage, with potential implications for their future careers in athletics, as well as raising the visibility of race walking in the U.S.

Bottom Line

This competition represents a significant achievement for both athletes and highlights the growing prominence of race walking in American athletics, reinforcing their dedication and achievements as they compete internationally.