Get ready, set, go! Last week, Athlos NYC burst onto the scene, uniting the world’s fastest female athletes to contend for one of the richest prize pools in track history. Spanning from Times Square to Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island, the series of track and field events filled the city’s diverse boroughs.
However, Athlos transcends just being a track meet; it’s ushering in a groundbreaking era for women’s running—cultivating a space that acknowledges and celebrates extraordinary female achievements. Founded by Alexis Ohanian, the event is in its second year; after featuring 35 elite female athletes competing for prizes last year, this year’s event has expanded to showcase even more talent and introduced a first-ever Field competition, paving the way for record-setting performances. Olympian Brittany Brown secured over $120,000 this year with her outstanding two wins.
“Athlos is redefining the landscape of track and field in America. It highlights the need for evolution: rewarding athletes with significant prize money, creating an enthralling experience for fans, and partnering with major brands are all essential for our progress,” Brown tells Vogue. “With the LA28 Olympics approaching, we must continuously ask ourselves: ‘How can we reinvent our sport? What fresh concepts remain unexplored? Who are we not reaching?’ Athlos is committed to finding these answers, and I am honored to be involved.”
The winners experienced an unforgettable moment when tennis icon Serena Williams awarded them custom Tiffany & Co. crowns. Aside from Brown, the champions also included Masai Russell, Marileidy Paulino, Keely Hodgkinson, Faith Kipyegon, and Tara Davis-Woodhall.
“Athlos was an absolutely phenomenal night. This event makes us feel valued. From direct fan interactions and flaunting our styles on the red carpet to the exhilarating race atmosphere, and not forgetting Ciara energizing us on the dance floor—especially Nikki Hiltz, what a legend—it truly felt like a celebration of who we are. Although I couldn’t compete this year due to an injury, being there as a spectator was a joy,” shares Olympic champion Gabby Thomas.
With thrilling races and Ciara’s electrifying performance marking the grand finale of the event, one thing stood out: Athlos is just getting warmed up. “It was exhilarating. It’s empowering to be in the presence of such accomplished individuals, racing alongside the fastest women in the world,” Masai Russell expresses. “I am truly grateful and can’t wait for the next edition.”
Taylor Sims
Serena Williams, Masai Russell
