Paris Olympics 2024: Athletes to Watch and Key Storylines in Track and Field

Paris Olympics: What to Know, Who to Watch During the Track and Field Competition

Track and field events have always been a cornerstone of the Olympic Games, showcasing the pinnacle of human speed, strength, and endurance. As the Paris Olympics approach, the anticipation is palpable. From August 2 to 11, the Stade de France will be the epicenter of this excitement, with the marathons set to pass through the historic Versailles on August 10 and 11. Notably, the women's marathon will cap off the action, breaking from tradition.

Athletes to Watch

Sha'Carri Richardson, United States

Sha'Carri Richardson, the world champion at 100 meters, is set to make her Olympic debut in Paris. Richardson's journey to the Olympics has been tumultuous; a failed drug test kept her from competing in Tokyo three years ago. Now, she returns with a point to prove and a legacy to build.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, United States

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the defending champion and world-record holder in the 400 meter hurdles, is another athlete to watch. While she dominated this event in the past, there are indications she might compete in a different event this year, adding an element of intrigue to her participation.

Noah Lyles, United States

Noah Lyles is expected to attempt the 100-200 double, a feat he achieved at the world championships last year. Lyles' speed and versatility make him a formidable contender in both events, and his performance will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike.

Mondo Duplantis, Sweden

Mondo Duplantis, the defending pole vault champion, aims to become the first man since 1956 to win consecutive Olympic titles in this event. Duplantis has broken the world record eight times over the past four years, each time by 1 centimeter, with the current record standing at 6.24 meters. His consistency and excellence make him a standout athlete in Paris.

Storylines to Follow

Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Jamaica

Jamaican sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is heading to her fifth Olympics, aiming to add to her impressive haul of eight medals. Fraser-Pryce has won more 100 meters medals than any other woman, and her quest for further glory will be a major storyline in Paris.

Yaroslava Mahuchikh, Ukraine

World champion Yaroslava Mahuchikh seeks to bring home Olympic gold in the high jump to her war-torn country of Ukraine. Mahuchikh's journey is not just about athletic excellence but also about resilience and hope, making her a symbol of strength for her nation.

Key Dates and Events

The track and field schedule runs from August 2 to 11 at Stade de France. The marathons, set for August 10 and 11, will pass through Versailles, adding a scenic backdrop to the grueling race. In a break from tradition, the women's marathon will cap off the action on August 11.

Reigning Champions

• Men's 100 meters: Marcell Jacobs of Italy.
• Women's 100 meters: Elaine Thompson-Herah of Jamaica, who is injured and will not compete in Paris.

With 48 events on the Olympic track and field program, the Paris Olympics promise to be a spectacle of athletic prowess and human spirit.

As the world gears up for these competitions, the stories of these athletes and their quests for glory will captivate audiences. The track and field events are not just about winning medals but also about the narratives of perseverance, redemption, and national pride. Whether it's Richardson's comeback, McLaughlin-Levrone's potential new challenge, or Mahuchikh's fight for her country, these Olympics will be a testament to the enduring power of sport.

Stay tuned to follow these events and support your favorite athletes as they strive for Olympic glory.