American runner Jessica McClain speaks out after bizarre mishap costs her first place: 'Truly sucks'

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American distance runner Jessica McClain opened up about some of the details of how she and two others were led astray during the U.S. Half Marathon Championships, ultimately costing her first place in the event.

McClain posted photos from her event on Instagram, laying out her thoughts and feelings about what occurred. McClain was leading the race with about two miles remaining.

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Jessica McClain competes in the women's 10,000 meter final on Day Nine of the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Track & Field Trials on June 29, 2024, in Eugene, Oregon. (Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

But her race was thrown off course as she was led off the path by a media vehicle, according to Athletics Illustrated. She followed the media vehicle, a police motorcycle and a motorcycle with a camera.

"I’m going try my hardest to walk away from this weekend remembering the joy I felt in those moments where I thought I was on my way to becoming a National Champion & finally make Team USA outright," she wrote in the caption.

"This truly sucks for everyone involved. No one wants this outcome, ever. Mistakes happen & I am sure those who were leading us feel terrible about the outcome. I just hate that the athletes are ALWAYS the ones who pay the price (literally $$$)… time & time again. I hope & trust that @usatf & @atlantatrackclub can somehow make it right for the athletes who were led off course."

McClain wrote that "something needs to change & safeguards should be in place for athletes who are out there doing their absolute best on race day."

"Someone needs to care enough to do something. Anything. I love this sport