On your mark! Get set! Sprint! Athlos NYC landed in the city last week, and the fastest women in the world competed for one of the largest prize purses in track history. From the center of Times Square to Icahn Stadium at Randall’s Island, Athlos’s series of track and field competitions spanned the city’s boroughs.
But Athlos is more than just a track event; it’s pioneering a new era in women’s running—creating a platform that honors and celebrates female feats. Founded by Alexis Ohanian, this year marks the second iteration of the event. Last year, 35 of the most talented women athletes in track vied for the prize. This year’s event expanded to include even more athletes—as well as a first-ever Field competition—setting the stage for record-breaking performances. Olympian Brittany Brown even pocketed over $120,000 with her two wins this year.
“For the sport of track and field, especially in America, I believe Athlos is showing the importance of evolution. Compensating athletes with great prize money, putting on a show that fans want to watch, and bringing in major brands and partners are all necessary steps for growth and advancement,” Brown tells Vogue. “As we move closer to LA28, track and field must keep asking: ‘How can we reimagine this sport? What new ideas have we not tried? Who have we not reached?’ Athlos is clearly asking these questions and is fully committed to answering them, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of the winners, as tennis legend Serena Williams presented them with custom Tiffany & Co. crowns. Aside from Brown, the champions include Masai Russell, Marileidy Paulino, Keely Hodgkinson, Faith Kipyegon, and Tara Davis-Woodhall.
“Athlos was truly an incredible night. This event makes us feel seen. Whether it’s the opportunity to interact so directly with our fans, to being able to show out on the red carpet with walk-out looks, to the over-the-top energy of the racing, and last but not least, Ciara making us go nuts on the dance floor—Nikki Hiltz, especially, what a legend—it all feels like a celebration of us. While I was sad I couldn’t compete this year with my injury, it was an absolute blast and I loved being there as a spectator,” Gabby Thomas, Olympic champion, says.
From the intense racing to Ciara’s electric performance to cap off the mega-event, one thing was made clear: Athlos is only just getting started. “It was just electric. It’s very empowering to be among so many successful people, competing amongst the fastest women in the world,” Maisai Russell adds. “I just have so much gratitude and truly can’t wait for the next one.”