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American sprint legend Michael Johnson releases Grand Slam Track dates
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 12.11.24. | 21:40
Selecting Kingston as a host city reflects Jamaica’s track and field legacy and its growing appeal as a sports tourism destination.
American sprint legend Michael Johnson has confirmed that Kingston, Jamaica, will host part of the highly anticipated Grand Slam Track series.
The event penciled for Friday 4 to Sunday 6 April 2025, the event will take place at Kingston's historic National Stadium in Independence Park, launching what Johnson hopes will become an electrifying annual track and field circuit.
The Jamaican capital joins Los Angeles as the first confirmed city in the four-location inaugural tour, with two more cities expected to be revealed later this week.
“Jamaica has such a strong history in this sport. The talent and love for track and field here make it a perfect fit for what we’re building. It’s going to be an incredible event, and we’re thrilled to have Kingston as one of our four stops,” Johnson told the Jamaica Observer.
Johnson envisions the Grand Slam Track League as a top-tier athletic series, combining elite competition with the allure of major sports leagues. Selecting Kingston as a host city reflects Jamaica’s track and field legacy and its growing appeal as a sports tourism destination.
Jamaican Minister of Sports, Olivia Grange, embraced the announcement, calling it a “significant opportunity” to celebrate Jamaica’s sporting heritage and boost its economy by drawing global spectators and participants.
“This is a chance for us to be part of something huge. Hosting top athletes on our track promotes our island as a sports hub and creates opportunities for local talent,” Grange remarked.
Recently, a Jamaican delegation led by Venue Director Don Lockerbie and Grand Slam Track representatives toured the National Stadium.
Built in 1962, the stadium holds a special place in Jamaican sports history, but its aging infrastructure, including the running track and lighting, has been a concern.
Garth Goyle, President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, played a pivotal role in securing Jamaica’s selection as a host.
Kenyan stars, including Olympic 5,000m silver medalist Ronald Kwemoi and World 10km record holder Agnes Jebet Ng’etich, are among the international athletes set to add to the excitement of this global athletic event.
