With only 50 days remaining until the World Athletics Relays take place in Nassau, the legendary Carl Lewis has been named the event’s ambassador. With nine Olympic gold medals and eight world championship championships under his belt, Lewis is a legendary athlete who will provide his knowledge and enthusiasm to the relay event set for May 4-5 in Nassau.
Having secured an impressive five global 4x100m titles throughout his illustrious career, Lewis will now witness the current stars of the sport vying for coveted Olympic berths.
“The adrenaline rush of relay competition is unmatched, and I’m eagerly anticipating seeing the world’s top athletes as they strive to book their spots at the Olympic Games in Paris,” Lewis commented.
Reflecting on his previous visit to The Bahamas for the 2017 World Relays, Lewis expressed his delight at returning, this time as the World Athletics ambassador. His goal is not only to promote the competition but also to showcase the sport to a global audience.
Nassau will see representation from over 50 countries, with hundreds of top sprinters, including local favorites Shaunae Miller-Uibo and Steven Gardiner. The stage is set for an exhilarating two-day Olympic qualifying event, featuring competitions in the women’s and men’s 4x100m, as well as the women’s, men’s, and mixed 4x400m relays.
Lewis will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the 4x100m relay, an event where he left an indelible mark by anchoring Team USA to victory at the Olympic Games twice and clinching three World Athletics Championships titles.
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His first Olympic relay triumph came on home soil at the 1984 Games in Los Angeles, where he also secured gold in the 100m, 200m, and long jump. The feat was repeated in Barcelona in 1992, solidifying Lewis’ status as one of the greatest relay runners of all time.
World Athletics CEO Jon Ridgeon expressed gratitude for having Lewis as the ambassador for the World Athletics Relays, acknowledging Lewis’ unparalleled contributions to the sport. Ridgeon emphasized the significance of Lewis’ presence as athletes aim to emulate his legacy while vying for their spots in Paris later this year.
In essence, the inclusion of Carl Lewis adds prestige and inspiration to an already electrifying event, promising a spectacle that celebrates athletic excellence and camaraderie on the global stage.
