Prepare for a new spectacle hitting the streets of Times Square, stealing the spotlight from Broadway’s usual performances.
An exclusive event showcasing women’s long jump will captivate audiences for a single night at the heart of Times Square. This is all part of Athlos, a female-only track and field series, aiming to bring the sport into the limelight.
The curtain rises on Act I as reigning world and Olympic champion Tara Davis-Woodhall leads a star-studded lineup in a unique long-jump competition at one of New York’s popular tourist spots.
Act II unfolds at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island the following day, featuring seven events, including the long jump final. A field of elite athletes, including Olympic champions Faith Kipyegon and Masai Russell, will vie for over $773,000 US in prize money. Winners will also receive a prestigious silver crown from Tiffany & Co.
Looking ahead to Act III next season, Athlos plans to expand with a team-oriented format.
“This is a roadmap to revitalizing the sport of track and field,” expressed Davis-Woodhall.
Athlos, Round 2
The upcoming Athlos NYC meet marks the event’s second edition, offering more time for meticulous planning.
Last year, Athlos founder Alexis Ohanian, known for Reddit, and his team had only five months to organize a women’s event, yet they managed to assemble a stellar cast post-Paris Olympics. They also secured rapper Megan Thee Stallion for a performance that attracted over three million viewers.
This season, Ohanian’s primary focus was on elevating the event to new heights. He and his team brainstormed extensively, aiming to create a professional yet entertaining platform that showcases the sport’s biggest stars.
Thus, the Times Square long-jump competition emerged, set against the backdrop of renowned stores like Sephora and Disney. Despite a grueling season, Davis-Woodhall is excited to participate in this event situated in the heart of global entertainment and theater.
“I’ve been coming to New York since I was 16, and on my first visit to Times Square, I dreamt of seeing my face on the billboards,” shared Davis-Woodhall. “To experience this full-circle moment from my childhood dreams is surreal and emotional.”
Enhanced Experience
On the event day, the excitement intensifies with more live music and storytelling. A DJ will keep the energy high between races, featuring events like the 100, 200, 400, 800, mile, and 100 hurdles. Notable names include 2024 Paris Olympic champions Faith Kipyegon (1,500), Marileidy Paulino (400), Keely Hodgkinson (800), and Masai Russell (100 hurdles).
Prize money ranges from $60,000 for first place to $2,500 for sixth. Athlos also allocates 10% of revenue to the participating athletes.
Furthermore, setting a world record earns a $250,000 bonus, with instant deposits via Cash App for most winners.
Star-Studded Audience
Among the spectators are renowned sprinters Sha’Carri Richardson, Gabby Thomas, and Melissa Jefferson-Wooden, fresh from winning three gold medals at the recent world championships in Tokyo. The event will also pay tribute to Jamaican legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, who is retiring from track.
Following the thrilling performances, singer Ciara will grace the stage.
“Our goal is to put these athletes in the spotlight, enhancing their brand and promoting the sport,” shared Ohanian, married to tennis star Serena Williams. “While we don’t claim to carry the sport, we believe there’s a tremendous opportunity here.”
Future Endeavors
Ohanian’s latest venture follows Michael Johnson’s efforts with the Grand Slam Track league, which faced challenges. Athlos aims to complement existing institutions by building a unique platform for the sport.
Ohanian envisions expanding Athlos for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, potentially hosting women-only events nationwide or globally.
“There’s no end goal in sight; it’s about continuous improvement and execution,” remarked Ohanian.