Western Oregon track and field alum Derek Holdsworth has earned a spot to represent Team USA in the 800 meters at the 2023 Pan American Games from Oct. 20-Nov. 5 in Santiago, Chile. The 800 semifinals are set for Nov. 3.

Holdsworth's selection to compete for Team USA comes on the heels of his performance in Eugene at the USA Championships from July 6-9. He finished sixth in the 800 final with a time of 1 minute, 47.61 seconds, two spots away from making the 2023 World Championships team.

"It feels good to finally make the U.S. Team," Holdsworth said. "I came agonizingly close my senior year of high school to be on the World Junior team. This just feels like I'm finally getting that moment."

This will mark Holdsworth's first appearance representing Team USA after establishing himself as one of the nation's premier middle-distance runners. He has demonstrated consistency as an athlete, having qualified for the USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships five times throughout his career. He looks to translate his valuable race experience and knowledge from the USA Championships to the Pan American Games.

"My attitude towards racing and competition has changed so much over the years, I respect my competition but I also think I have the potential to be one of the best out there and I hope to show that in Santiago," he adds.

At Western Oregon, Holdsworth posted a WOU-record 1:47.74 in the 800, ranking him first in NCAA Division II and tied for fifth in all NCAA divisions in 2020. During that same indoor season, he was a part of the distance medley relay team that qualified for the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in Birmingham, Alabama. He was also a six-time NJCAA national champion while competing at Trinidad State Junior College.