Grant Fisher’s Comeback: A New Path to Olympic Glory

Grant Fisher Eyes Olympic Redemption After Training Reset

Grant Fisher, one of America’s top distance runners, has embarked on a determined comeback journey after a tough 2023 season. The 26-year-old Stanford graduate, who narrowly missed a medal in the 10,000 meters at the Tokyo Olympics, has made significant changes to reinvigorate his career—and all signs point toward a renewed Olympic push.

Fisher moved his training base to North Carolina, joining coach Mike Smith and an elite group of runners at the Nike-supported Union Athletics Club. He left behind the high-altitude environment of Bowerman Track Club in Portland, where he had trained under Jerry Schumacher for years. Fisher says the decision wasn’t easy, but it was necessary.

“I needed to shake things up,” Fisher shared. “After two years of stagnation, I wanted to rediscover the joy in running and take control of my training.”

This shift came on the heels of a 2023 season filled with setbacks. Injuries, inconsistent performances, and the psychological toll of high expectations had left Fisher searching for a fresh start. Instead of dwelling on past disappointments, he chose to redefine his trajectory. He now trains at sea level, runs fewer miles per week, and listens more closely to his body—an approach he hopes will lead to longevity and success.

Despite the obstacles, Fisher remains one of the most exciting American distance runners. His personal best of 26:33.84 in the 10,000 meters is the second-fastest time ever run by an American. He’s also the first U.S. athlete to break both 13 minutes in the 5,000 meters and 27 minutes in the 10,000 meters in the same season.

Fisher’s fans have watched his evolution with hope and curiosity. He has embraced the challenge of refining not just his physical training but also his mental preparation. Meditation, mindfulness, and a more relaxed lifestyle now accompany his daily mileage.

“My biggest goal is to make the U.S. team for Paris and put myself in the best possible position to medal,” Fisher said. “But more than that, I want to enjoy this journey.”

As the U.S. Olympic Trials approach, Fisher remains focused on improvement. He understands that the path to greatness involves both setbacks and breakthroughs. The experience he gained in Tokyo—finishing fifth in the 10,000 meters and ninth in the 5,000—still fuels him, but he’s no longer driven solely by the past.

Instead, Fisher trains with renewed clarity and a belief that growth doesn’t always happen in a straight line. With a reenergized mindset and a support system that believes in his potential, he’s ready to chase redemption on the biggest stage.

Will this new approach take Fisher from near-podium heartbreak to Olympic glory in Paris?

‍