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Michael Johnson's Grand Slam Track has generated buzz attracting both praise and criticism.
American sprint icon Michael Johnson has opened up about the driving force behind the creation of Grand Slam Track, an innovative league designed specifically for track athletes.
With the inaugural event set for 2025, the meet has stirred up considerable buzz, drawing both praise for Johnson’s groundbreaking initiative and skepticism about the league’s structure and execution.
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19:00 - 02.01.2025
Rai Benjamin joins Tara Davis-Woodhall in condemning Michael Johnson’s exclusion of field events from Grand Slam Track
Rai Benjamin has backed Tara Davis-Woodhall on her ongoing feud with Michael Johnson amid concerns over field events missing at Grand Slam Track.
Johnson expressed has expressed his hopes for the event and emphasized the importance of authenticity.
"Listen, just go out there and race. Be your authentic self. You're here because of who you are, not because of something we want you to be. Just be you, just do you. You've done it enough times to know you deserve to be here, and that's exactly why you're here,” Johnson said.
His message highlighted his commitment to ensuring athletes could compete on their own terms, an issue he says has long been overlooked in track and field.
He continued, “Let me say this, all of us athletes, agents, we’ve been in this sport forever. And for a long time, we’ve been complaining about it, calling for change. Well, this is the change.”
As the mastermind behind the Grand Slam Track, Johnson expressed deep gratitude towards the athletes who have committed to the league, acknowledging the leap of faith they’ve made.
“I want to say I appreciate you all for recognizing this change. I appreciate you for trusting me, for trusting us, and for saying, 'I’m good with it. Sign me up. I want to be a part of this.'"
The Grand Slam Track series will feature several major events across the U.S. in 2025, with dates and host cities confirmed.
Kingston, Jamaiaca will play host to the first meet in April with attention turning to the USA in May as Miami hosts the second meet before Philadelphia hosting the thrd later in the month as Los Angeles hosts the fourth and final meet in June.
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08:12 - 02.01.2025
‘I love track AND field’ - Michael Johnson seeks to end feud with Tara Davis-Woodhall over controversial comment
The American sprint legend has sought to end his beef with Olympics long jump champion Tara Davis-Woodhall after addressing concerns over field events missing at Grand Slam Track.
These locations will showcase some of the sport's biggest names. Among those piosed for showdown are Olympic gold medalists and top sprinters including Gabby Thomas, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Josh Kerr, Cole Hocker, Fred Kerley, Kenny Bednarek, Melissa Jefferson, Masai Russell, Cyréna Samba-Mayela, and Oblique Seville.
As the first season draws near, excitement is building within the track and field community, with many hoping that Johnson's vision will reshape the future of the sport.
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