After the Paris Olympics, fans are eagerly searching for the next big track and field event. Look no further than Alexis Ohanian’s Athlos! Scheduled for September 26th, this competition is already creating a buzz with its impressive lineup of female stars. Gabby Thomas, the triple gold queen of the Paris Olympics, is the event’s marquee athlete, and she’s hyped about it. Gabby took to Instagram to share her excitement, posting a conversation with a friend where the friend said, “This is going to literally be the track event of the year.” Gabby’s response? “And that’s counting the Olympics😂”

With stars like Thomas, Faith Kipyegon, Alexis Holmes, Torrie Lewis, and 32 more athletes confirmed, the lineup promises to be nothing short of spectacular. With 36 athletes competing across 6 races, the energy is at an all-time high, and for one athlete in particular, this event represents a chance at redemption from the heartbreak of the Paris Olympics.

The latest addition to Athlos is Olympian Alaysha Johnson, who will be racing in the 100-meter hurdles. Johnson initially qualified for Paris by finishing second at the track and field US Olympic trials with a personal best of 12.31 seconds. Despite a strong showing in the semifinals with a time of 12.34 seconds, she struggled in the finals, ending up seventh with a time of 12.93 seconds. Now, thanks to Alexis Ohanian’s Athlos, Johnson has a major platform to showcase her true potential and make a powerful comeback!

The Athlos account dropped a big announcement on Wednesday with an X post revealing Alaysha Johnson’s participation. In her video reveal, Johnson opened up about her track and field philosophy and what she brings to the table. “I feel like it’s a show. I run for people that come from a place like me. I’ve always been a risk-taker. I’ve never been afraid to take the path less traveled. I bring everything—I bring the fashion, the beauty, the spunk, the attitude, and the speed,” she said.

A lot is riding on this track and field event for Alaysha Johnson, both in terms of performance and payday. If she hits her stride, she could leave the track significantly richer—each competition winner takes home a cool $60,000. The runner-up scores $25,000, and third place bags $10,000. To put that into perspective, the top prize at the Diamond League is the same as what you’d get for finishing third at Athlos.

But it’s not just the prize money that’s drawing attention. The track and field event is set to be star-studded, with rapper Megan Thee Stallion headlining with a performance that’s bound to add to the excitement. This opportunity is a fresh start for Johnson, courtesy of Alexis Ohanian. It’s especially significant following a recent controversy involving her after the Olympic trials, where Ohanian showed his support!

Alexis Ohanian stepped up for Alaysha Johnson in a big way, even before her Paris track and field heartbreak

After securing her spot for Paris at the US Olympic trials, Alaysha Johnson was overwhelmed with emotion and dedicated her achievement to black women everywhere. “This is for the hood babies, the people who are poor and come from nothing. This is for everybody that looks like me that was ever doubted. And I did it with a black designer on my chest. This is what I stand for and I’m making a way for everybody in my position,” she declared. “I did this for everybody that looks like me.”

However, her heartfelt message didn’t sit well with everyone. American commentator Michael Knowles weighed in with, “The only people in Olympic running who might not think they can make it are the people who don’t look like her.” His remarks sparked a wave of backlash, and Johnson found herself the target of online trolls.

During this rough patch, Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian stepped up to support Johnson. Responding to a post about the controversy, Ohanian advised, “Don’t give this clown any of the attention he craves.” His support was crucial in countering the negativity Johnson faced, showing that he was ready to back her up.

With Alexis Ohanian stepping up to give Alaysha Johnson a major track and field platform at Athlos, he’s proving once again to be her biggest cheerleader. Reflecting on this pivotal moment and Johnson’s role in the September 26th event at Icahn Stadium, it’s clear she’s got a chance to turn things around. Can she leap over the hurdles of her Paris Olympics heartbreak and claim victory at Athlos? Share your thoughts in the comments below!