There is much to be done ahead of the 2024 CTFL season, as teams must both cut weak links and draft new talent. Roster changes are bound to have profound impacts on each of the four teams’ performances, but returning athletes will dictate the outcome of the season.

New World Athletics has selected ten athletes that look promising ahead of this season. Some are big names that performed well in the 2023 season, and some flew under the radar but are capable of making waves in their disciplines.

Here is New World Athletics Ones to Watch:

Alexandra Telford

Soaring above the competition

Telford had an impressive outdoor season, beating her personal best in multiple events. Her success on the track was reflected in her CTFL point tally. The 27-year-old won 76 points, the maximum points available for an athlete in the league, and was MVP of the Arctics.

Telford’s best time of the season – and a new personal best – was 58.51, which saw her place fourth at the Canadian Championships in Langley, B.C. The hurdler dominated the season, placing first in every mark and was the only athlete in the discipline to run a sub-one-minute time, with the second-best time being 1:07.16. 

Outside of the league, Telford won the 4x400m at the 2023 Canadian Championships alongside CTFL athletes Doyin Ogunremi and Sydney Smith .

Next season

While she convincingly won her discipline last season, a new competitor may challenge Telford for that title. Helena Jovic of the Huskies has a personal best of 59.97 in the event, a mark recorded at just 18-years-old. Jovic, however, did not record a mark in the event last season. Now 22, if Jovic can return to her previous form this season, Telford’s grip on the discipline may be loosened.

Despite the possible competition, Telford looks likely to impress this season. Her 2024 season has begun well, as she set a new personal best of 1:36.35 in the 600m. Fans can expect the Arctic’s athlete to excel in the upcoming season and be a contender to win team MVP once again.