Legendary American Olympian Joins Forces With World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 as Global Ambassador

The athletics world is gearing up to make its way to the World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 in about 50 days. The brainchild of Olympic medallist Pauline Davis has grown to attract the best of the field for a 2-day spectacle over the years. As the event nears the brink, the organizing committee has an exciting name to place at the forefront for representation.

The Bahamas last hosted the World Athletics Relays in 2017, following two more prior. The land has been a cherished home to the event, making it a celebratory occasion as it arrives back after seven years. Marking the instance of excitement will be Olympic legend, and track and field icon, Carl Lewis himself.

9x Olympic gold medalist on the World Athletics Relays sidetrack

On May 4th and 5th, Nassau will be hosting the best of athletes eyeing the coveted spots in Paris at the World Athletics Relays. “From Paradise to Paris!” the organizing committee calls it, considering the athletes’ love for the island. After much planning in place for the anticipated event, World Athletics on March 15th announced Carl Lewis would be the global ambassador. “Carl is one of the greatest relay runners of all time and it’s brilliant to have him on board with World Athletics,” said CEO Jon Ridgeon.

Carl Lewis attained his first Olympic glory in 1984 games. The dominant sprinter secured gold in 100m, 200m, 4x100m, and long jump. He further went on to accumulate 9 Olympic gold and a silver by his last games in 1988. Moreover, besides his 2-time Olympic glory in 4×100, Lewis has led his team to victory thrice at the World Athletics Championships.

His celebrated experience, Jon Ridgeon believes, will be an inspiration to athletes at the World Athletics Relays. The last time Lewis was in the Bahamas for the relays was in 2017 as an individual coach. Coming back as an ambassador, he “aims to promote the competition and showcase the sport.” Here’s how a view looks.

A glimpse of the nearing spectacle

The first edition of the World Athletics Relays was held in the Bahamas in 2014. The event welcomed 500 athletes representing more than 40 nations. Men and women competed across 4x100m, 4x200m, 4x800m and 4x1500m. However, this time around, the Bahamas is expecting 1,600 athletes from 50 nations. Additionally, teams of men and women will race across 4x100m and 4x400m.

Also Read: Watch: Unbelievable Video of 10x Olympic Medalist Carl Lewis Effortlessly Shattering World Record

The event will further include an array of activities, including a mascot competition, an island baton relay, and numerous initiatives.  Enthusiasts can catch the 2-day action through live streaming on World Athletics Relays Bahamas 24 official streaming platforms on YouTube and Facebook. Being a key event for the Olympics ahead, the Relays will mark the beginning of the road to Paris.

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