In a surprising turn of events, Los Angeles has been stripped of its two major track meets in June, leaving the city without a significant track event this summer. The Grand Slam Track league has canceled its final meet of the inaugural season, scheduled for the last weekend in June at Drake Stadium. This decision comes on the heels of USA Track and Field’s (USATF) recent announcement to cancel the L.A. Grand Prix, which was set to take place earlier in June at the same venue.
The Reason Behind the Cancellation
According to USATF CEO Max Siegel, the federation pulled its event due to the impracticality of hosting two major track meets at the same venue in Los Angeles within a span of three weeks. This decision highlights the challenges of organizing high-profile events in a condensed timeframe.
Grand Slam Track’s Inaugural Season
Despite the cancellation, Grand Slam Track founder Michael Johnson expressed satisfaction with the league’s inaugural season. Johnson stated that the decision to conclude the season was not taken lightly but was rooted in the belief that the league had successfully achieved its objectives. The league managed to attract top talent, including Olympic champions Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Gabby Thomas.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s Impact
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, a prominent figure in the track and field world, was among the top athletes signed by Grand Slam Track. Her participation helped bring attention to the league and its events. McLaughlin-Levrone’s impressive performances have made her a household name, and her involvement in Grand Slam Track was seen as a significant coup.
The Impact on Los Angeles
The cancellation of these two major track meets is a setback for Los Angeles, particularly given its status as the host city for the 2028 Olympics. The city had been expected to showcase its capabilities as a premier sports destination, but the absence of these events may impact its preparations.
The cancellation of the L.A. Grand Prix and the Grand Slam Track meet leaves Los Angeles without a major track event this summer. While Grand Slam Track’s inaugural season may have achieved its objectives, the decision to cancel the final meet and the USATF’s withdrawal from the L.A. Grand Prix have significant implications for the track and field community in Los Angeles. As the city prepares for the 2028 Olympics, it remains to be seen how these cancellations will affect its ability to host successful events in the future.
You have time to have numerous protests on behalf of people in the US illegally, but not time for our Olympic hero’s.