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.
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.
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.