Gabby Thomas does not stop to amaze the track and field world. While making records on the field, the 2x Olympic medalist has now captivated the community by announcing a female-only track and field event. In displaying a revolutionary move towards gender equality, she witnessed Alexis Ohanian, Serena Williams’ spouse and the founder of Reddit, holding hands. In such a noble cause, Gabby Thomas received praise from legends like Athing Mu and Anna Hall. Moreover, the backstory of the event is nothing short of gripping. 

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As per the announcement, Ohanian’s venture capital firm, Seven Seven Six, took a distinct interest in female track and field events after witnessing the founder’s glee in it. Ohanian thoroughly noticed the lack of media coverage of the sport when the Olympics were not there. So, in restructuring the entire sphere, he decided to introduce the new Invitational. To shape it, he eventually contacted Gabby Thomas, who came to his rescue. 

In announcing the funding part, both the stakeholders informed it to be the biggest so far. In further detail, the top podium will get USD 60,000 whereas the consecutive rankers will earn USD 25000 and USD 10000. The date of the event is not fixed yet. However, according to the general statements, it will take place in September after the conclusion of the Paris Olympics. Meanwhile, the women athletes couldn’t hold their joy after noticing the announcement. 

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In expressing her merriment, American track and field athlete Anna Hall quoted it as “womens sports 📈!!!!!!” On the other hand, Athing Mu, the 2x Olympic champion, disbursed her take by penning, “So good!” on IG. But, Gabby Thomas eyed for more support from the female track and field athletes to make a wholesome effort to fulfill the cause. Soon, she made the clarion call beneath the same IG post. 

Gabby Thomas wants fellow athletes to rewrite history 

After Alexis Ohanian narrated his side, Gabby Thomas firmly girded herself to call for enhanced participation in the event. On that estimate, she penned, “We need the track girlies to get involved!! I’m only the first of many.” Within a moment she received a shout-out from fellow athlete, Britton Rose. 

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In her excitement toward the event and the role played by Gabby, the American hurdler wrote, “you’re literally incredible??? this is so cool Gabby!!🤍” The American legend Emma Coburn also made her thankful post. 

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 The 10x US champion in steeplechase patted Gabby Thomas by penning, “Well done!!!!!!!!”. Aleia Hobbs, another Olympic prospect from the USA, preferred to post a fire emoji to showcase her emotion. Gabriele Cunningham, the world indoor medalist, posted her heartfelt gesture by terming, “Love this!”. Surely, Gabby Thomas will find much more backing to convert the effort into a successful reality. 

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Prasun Chakrabarty

2,302 Articles

Prasun Chakrabarty is a Senior Writer in the Olympic Sports division at EssentiallySports, where he covers track and field, gymnastics, swimming, and other Olympic disciplines. A seasoned journalist with three years at the company, Prasun's extensive knowledge and passion for track and field were evident from day one. With years of connections and research already established, he brought a unique edge to the ES Insights and Trends Desk. He has since become a key voice in the company's Olympic sports coverage. His star coverage includes World Athletics Indoor Championships, USATF Outdoor Championships, and reporting live from the U.S. Marathon Trials. His expertise earned him a special invitation from the Paris City Council to cover lead-up events ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Over time, his stories have sparked real-world impact. His piece on athlete mental toughness drew praise from Texas Volleyball head coach Jerritt Elliott, while a feature on winter sports caught the attention of Olympic champion Lindsey Vonn, who engaged with it publicly. His reporting has made its way into Wikipedia, where editors have cited his work as a trusted source on Olympic sports. Being an alum of the Journalistic Excellence Program (JEP) and an active member of the ES Think Tank, he’s part of the team driving the site’s long-term coverage strategy.

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Bhujaya Ray Chowdhury