Gabby Thomas Dives Into 776 Invitational’s Alexis Ohanian’s Approach to Biggest Track and Field Purse Event

Lined up shortly after the Paris Olympics is the flag-off of a one-of-a-kind event. A visionary initiative by Serena Williams’ husband Alexis Ohanian, the  776 Invitational promises an action-packed affair. Exclusive for women athletes, it shall bring some of the top female names in track and field to compete under one banner alongside offering hefty monetary prizes. As per model-sprinter Gabby Thomas, who had joined 776’s journey quite early in its inception, the event seems to be coming along beautifully.

Post her 18th May showdown at the LA Grand Pix, Gabby Thomas shared her thoughts about the 776 Invitational, Alexis’ progress with it so far, and its anticipated impact. Her excitement was indeed visible as she briefly commented on it.

776 Invitational’s insights powered by Gabby Thomas

A recent X post from the official account of Citius Magazine has unfolded the latest update about the 776 Invitational. It shows a 25-second snippet from the post-run conversation with Gabby Thomas at the LA Grand Pix. In the video, the American sprinter is answering a question focused on visibility in female sports referring to the upcoming women-only competition. To that, Gabby opens with, “I think women’s sports is having an amazing moment right now and I’m really excited about it.”

Moreover, as she elaborates, Thomas points out a distinct feature that makes the 776 Invitational stand out in her opinion. “It is really for the athletes,” the track star adds in appreciation. What’s more, Gabby even sheds light on the Reddit co-founder’s approach towards ensuring that the event sufficiently boosts women’s sports. She adds, “Alexis has consulted with us and asked us what we want to see, change, what we like about track, so I think all those changes will be implemented into the track meet.” 

Finally, as the two-time Olympic medalist sums up, she describes the 776 Invitational as “a great opportunity to increase visibility in sports, especially women’s sports, and especially women’s track and field.” Per her reflection, one can reckon that this event is aiming to achieve a switch of gears in how women’s sports have been functioning so far.

All you need to know about the 776 Invitational

Founder Alexis Ohanian laid the foundation of the 776 Invitational at the Business of Women’s Sports Summit in New York, in March 2024. With a whopping $31 million investment towards the advancement of women’s track and field, this event strives towards achieving equality between men’s and women’s sports. Mainly from the viewpoint of finances, this women-focused competition boasts a never-seen-before event purse of $500,000. As a result, it offers $60,000 for gold, $25,000 for silver, and $10,000 for bronze-winning athletes.

While Gabby Thomas was the first athlete face to be associated with the 776 Invitational, Alexis recently declared that British runner Annie Tagoe is also onboarding the competition. Fans are definitely ecstatic about her arrival, but they also have been constantly speculating about the possible additions to the list. And ace athletes Sha’ Carri Richardon and Julien Alfred have been topping the charts. However, there is no confirmation of their appearance.

Lastly, the 776 Invitational is scheduled around September 2024, slated right after the Olympics, at a venue that is yet to be decided. It evidently comes with a huge promise of triggering a new revolution in women’s track and field. Based on Gabby’s insights, it seems right on track so far. But whether or not it will match up to the lofty expectations will only unravel in the future.