UIPM 2026 Obstacle World Championships: 100m Finals champions' reaction

Men’s 100m gold: Luke Beckstrand (USA)

Luke, talk us through that Final

“Man, that was so amazing. It was such a crazy race. I knew racing Gal, I would have to give it my all. He's such an incredible athlete. So I put all on the course, and we tied. I didn't know who won. It's crazy. I got both shoes today, so that's that's a plus." 

You had such a lead going into the last two or three obstacles, and he came from nowhere. Is that something you're used to seeing with Gal?

“Yes, he's an incredible athlete, especially on the ground. He's super, super fast. Also, I didn't do my technique on the wheels that I wanted to do. I hit every single wheel, so that slowed me down a little bit. But you know, mistakes happen, so he caught me there. But an amazing finish.

“I wouldn't want to share this with anybody else. Gal's an incredible athletes, so we both deserve it. What an amazing final."

What is your message for young Ninjas around the world?

“Keep working at your dreams, keep training hard, and you'll get there one day."

Men’s 100m gold: Gal Shrim (ISR)

Gal, talk us through that finish

“I mean, we got up to the buzzer and we pressed it, and then we looked at each other. We looked at the time, and we're like, 'What just happened, man? What is it?' So we were in shock, complete shock. And I'm very honoured to share this number one in the world with Luke. He's an amazing competitor.

What is your message for young Ninjas around the world?

“Everything is possible. Even if I'm at the back and he's in front of me, just know it's not over until it's over. And follow your dreams." 

Women’s 100m gold: May Yahalom (ISR)

How does it feel to be world champion?

“It feels amazing. I am extremely excited and very happy. I came here with the goal of winning, so to achieve that and become world champion is a wonderful feeling.

“I worked very hard for this competition and trained a lot to prepare myself. There was pressure, of course, but I tried to stay focused and trust myself.”

What was going through your mind during the final?

“I tried not to think too much about the other athlete. I just concentrated on my own race, on completing every obstacle properly and getting to the finish as quickly as I could.

“I knew I had to give everything because anything can happen in a 100m race. You have to stay focused right until the end.”

What does this victory mean to you?

“It means a lot. I am very proud to represent Israel and very happy that all the hard work has paid off.

“I want to thank my family, my coaches and everyone who supported me and helped me to get here. This medal is very special to me.”