Evan Dunfee of Richmond, B.C. wins 35K race walk at World Athletics Championships, securing Canada’s first gold at the 2025 event.
Veteran Walker Claims World Title
Evan Dunfee of Richmond, B.C., captured gold in the men’s 35-kilometre race walk at the World Athletics Championships on Friday. The 34-year-old overtook the leading pack in the final stretch to deliver Canada its first gold medal of the competition.
Breaking Away in the Final Kilometres
Dunfee clocked a winning time of two hours, 28 minutes, and 22 seconds, finishing 33 seconds ahead of Caio Bonfim of Brazil. Japan’s Hayato Katsuki took bronze in 2:29:16. Dunfee surged past the top five walkers in the last eight kilometres, cementing his reputation as a strong closer in endurance events.
Decades of Dedication
The victory marks a career milestone for Dunfee, who described the result as “25 years in the making.” Competing in his seventh world championships, he previously earned bronze in the 50K walk at both the 2019 World Championships and the Tokyo Olympics, along with Commonwealth gold in the 10K walk in 2022.
Overcoming Pain for Glory
Reflecting on the win, Dunfee admitted the final two kilometres were grueling. “I’ve never been in that much pain in my life,” he said. “I just kept thinking one more step, one more step. Coming into the stadium and realizing I could actually win — it was incredible.”
Canadian Representation on the Women’s Side
In the women’s 35K race walk, Nanaimo’s Olivia Lundman was unable to finish after being disqualified at the eight-kilometre mark. Spain’s Maria Perez went on to win the event in 2:39:01. At just 22, Lundman remains a promising talent for Canada despite the setback.
Looking Toward the Future
Dunfee’s gold is a historic moment for Canadian athletics, further solidifying his legacy as one of the nation’s most decorated race walkers. With the Olympic program now featuring only the 20K walk, where Dunfee placed fifth in Paris last year, his latest triumph ensures momentum as Canada builds toward future international competitions.
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