USOPC Announces $100 Million for Post-Games Athlete Financial Support

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USOPC announces $100 million for post-Games athlete financial support

Philanthropist Ross Stevens has donated $100 million to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) to establish the Stevens Financial Security Award, aiming to provide Team USA athletes with post-retirement financial support. This initiative offers awards of up to $200,000 per athlete per the number of Games in which they competed, addressing the financial challenges many face after their athletic careers. The fund is structured to reward athletes for their sacrifices and assist in their transition to post-competition life.

New York City Marathon accepted only 2-3% of applicants for 2025 race

The 2025 New York City Marathon has received over 200,000 applications, marking a 22% increase from the previous year and reflecting a growing interest in distance running across the United States. Despite this record-breaking number of applicants, only about 2% to 3% will secure entry through the general lottery, highlighting the event's competitive nature. Prospective participants can also pursue alternative entry methods, such as through an official charity program like the MEB Foundation.

Jake Wightman to no longer be coached by father Geoff

British middle-distance runner Jake Wightman has announced that he will no longer be coached by his father, Geoff Wightman, who has been instrumental in his development from a young athlete to a world champion in the 1500 meters. Jake said in a post to Instagram, “By doing this we ensure there’s plenty more to come in the future, not as a coach/athlete but as a father/son, away from the intensity and stress of training and racing.” Geoff, in addition to coaching Jake, is a long-time sports commentator and notably called Jake’s world championship winning race in 2022.

Mixed 4×400 now an official discipline

World Athletics has officially added the indoor 4x400m mixed relay to its rule book, marking its debut at next year's indoor championships. This decision follows the outdoor version's successful introduction at the Tokyo Olympics four years ago.

Melissa Jefferson marries Rolan Wooden II

Melissa Jefferson married her college sweetheart, Rolan Wooden II, on March 2 at the Winter Park Events Center in Florida. The couple's "navy, champagne, and gold" themed wedding was attended by 250 guests, including Tee Tee Terry, Sha'Carri Richardson, Kenny Bednarek, and Christian Coleman. ​Jefferson and Wooden met during their time as student-athletes at Coastal Carolina University, where Jefferson excelled in track and field, and Wooden was on the Chanticleer’s football team. They couple got engaged in October 2023.