The U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials underway now through June 30th with over 900 athletes in action

Athletes are gearing up to compete in iconic TrackTown USA — also known as Eugene, Oregon — starting tonight and running through June 30th, with rest days scheduled for June 25th and 26th. Approximately 900 Olympic hopefuls will participate in 20 events, including 10 running, four throwing, four jumping, the race walk, and the heptathlon for women and decathlon for men.

The objective? Finish in the top three. With a few exceptions, athletes who make the podium and meet the Olympic qualifying standard for their event will secure a spot in Paris. It’s important to mention that the Olympic marathon team has already been determined. Marathoners competed back in February to earn their spots, giving them enough time to recover for the marathon in Paris this August.

Part of the excitement (and heartbreak) of the Team USA Trials is that, unlike some countries that handpick their representatives, in Oregon, it’s anyone’s race to win once they hit the track. So, let’s take a look at the top contenders.

Sha’Carri Richardson (100m and 200m): After a controversial absence from the 2020 Olympic team, the reigning 100m world champion is ready to make her Olympic debut.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (400m hurdles): The 2020 Olympics champion is aiming to make history by becoming the first woman to win back-to-back gold in the event.

Anna Hall (heptathlon): Despite setbacks with injuries, Hall, the 2023 World Championships silver medalist, is determined to make her mark.

Parker Valby (5000m and 10,000M): With impressive collegiate records, Valby is poised to demonstrate her dominance on the national stage.

Noah Lyles (100m and 200m): After a successful World Championships sweep, Lyles is the man to keep an eye on in Eugene.

Ryan Crouser (shot put): The two-time Olympic gold medalist is aiming for a third consecutive win in Paris.

Grant Holloway (110m hurdles): With past success, Holloway is determined to secure his first-ever Olympic gold.

Chris Nilsen (pole vault): Nilsen, along with other top contenders, is expected to put on a thrilling show in the pole vault event.

NBC, USA Network, and Peacock will be broadcasting all the action on the journey to Paris. Highlight events to watch this weekend include the Men’s shot put final, Women’s 100m final, Women’s 400m final, and Men’s 100m final.

Let the games begin!