PITTSBURGH, PA — Larry Lawrence, Founder and CEO of Lawrence Wealth Management, is joining the USATF Foundation Board of Directors. A former state champion in cross-country and track, Lawrence competed collegiately at BYU, where he earned three All-American honors and captured a conference championship title. After his competitive career, he continued his commitment to the sport by coaching high school track. 

“It is an honor to join the USATF Foundation Board and to support its mission of advancing track and field,” said Lawrence. “This sport has played a central role in my life, and I look forward to contributing to the Foundation’s efforts to help athletes excel in competition and in life.” 

Lawrence’s passion for running has remained constant throughout his life. He has completed more than 80 marathons, including decades of appearances at the Boston Marathon. 

In addition to his leadership at Lawrence Wealth Management, Lawrence also owns and operates Lawrence Cattle, where he raises Black Angus beef. His entrepreneurial background and deep connection to track and field will serve as valuable assets to the Foundation. 

TOKYO, JAPAN — Team USA once again demonstrated its dominance on the global stage at the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. The weeklong competition was marked by extraordinary performances, highlighted by one world record, nine area records, nine championship records, and 62 national records. USATF Foundation grantees played a pivotal role, contributing to an impressive medal haul across multiple disciplines.

Ryan Crouser and Katie Moon continued their reign in the field, each capturing a third consecutive international gold medal in the shot put and pole vault, respectively. Despite challenging weather conditions ranging from heavy rain to extreme heat and humidity, Team USA consistently delivered.

One of the most dramatic storylines came from Cole Hocker, who was disqualified in the 1500m but rebounded to capture gold in the 5,000m. In the 110m hurdles, three-time world champion Grant Holloway was eliminated in the semifinals, but teammate Cordell Tinch seized the opportunity, running 12.99 to secure the gold. Curtis Thompson made history in the javelin, earning bronze—the first U.S. medal in the event in 18 years.

Distance standout Nico Young capped his first professional season with 5th place in the 10,000m and 6th in the 5,000m. Grace Stark earned bronze in the 100m hurdles with a blistering 12.34. Sandi Morris completed her comeback from multiple injuries with a silver medal in the pole vault. Meanwhile, Valarie Allman captured her first World Championship gold after winning silver in 2022 and bronze in 2023.

In the marathon, Jessica McClain—daughter of USATF Foundation Board Director Scott Tonn—showed remarkable grit, leading much of the race.  Team USA teammate Susanna Sullivan finished 4th in the grueling conditions and McClain in 8th.  Clayton Young finished 9th as the top American for the men.  Team USA gave a proud showing in the multi-events with Taliyah Brooks tying for bronze and Anna Hall reaching gold in the heptathlon after bronze in 2022 and silver in 2023.  On the men’s side, Kyle Garland secured bronze in the decathlon.

Team USA’s relay squads also delivered stellar performances. After being granted a rerun due to interference, the men’s 4x400m team advanced and secured silver in the final. The men’s 4x100m, mixed 4x400m, and both women’s relays (4x100m and 4x400m) all struck gold. Middle-distance runner Sage Hurta-Klecker impressed with a 5th-place finish in the 800m, running 1:55.89 to move to #3 on the U.S. all-time list.

Rising star Cooper Lutkenhaus made history as the youngest American ever to compete at the World Championships, following his record-setting 1:42.27 in the 800m at the U.S. Outdoor Championships earlier this year.

2025 USATF Foundation Grantee Medal Performances

Stephen A. Schwarzman Grantees:

Valarie Allman – GOLD (Discus)

Christopher Bailey – SILVER (4x400m), 22^nd (400m)

Kenny Bednarek – GOLD (4x100m), SILVER (200m), 4^th (100m) 

Taliyah Brooks – BRONZE (Heptathlon)

Ryan Crouser – GOLD (Shot Put)

Rosey Effiong – GOLD (4x400m)

Kyle Garland – BRONZE (Decathlon)

Anna Hall – GOLD (Heptathlon)

Cole Hocker – GOLD (5000m), DQ (1500m)

Chase Jackson – SILVER (Shot Put)

Jasmine Jones – SILVER (400m Hurdles)

Courtney Lindsey – GOLD (4x100m), 16^th (200m), 22^nd (100m)

Jenoah McKiver – GOLD (Mixed Relay), SILVER (4x400m)

Khaleb McRae – SILVER (4x400m), 13^th (400m)

Katie Moon – GOLD (Pole Vault)

Sandi Morris – SILVER (Pole Vault)

Vernon Norwood – SILVER (4x400m), 15^th (400m)

Jacory Patterson – SILVER (4x400m), 7^th (400m)

Sha’Carri Richardson – GOLD (4x100m), 5th (100m)

Grace Stark – BRONZE (100m Hurdles)

Twanisha Terry – GOLD (4x100m), 11^th (100m)

Curtis Thompson – BRONZE (Javelin)

Cordell Tinch – GOLD (110m Hurdles)

Isabella Whittaker – GOLD (4x400m), 10^th (400m)

Kayla White – GOLD (4x100m), 17^th (100m)

Elite Athlete Development Grantees:

Ronnie Baker – GOLD (4x100m)

Bryce Deadmon – GOLD (Mixed Relay), SILVER (4x400m)

Quanera Hayes – GOLD (4x400m)

Alexis Holmes – GOLD (Mixed Relay), GOLD (4x400m)

Lynna Irby-Jackson – GOLD (Mixed Relay), GOLD (4x400m)

Jacious Sears – GOLD (4x100m)

Demarius Smith – SILVER (4x400m)

Britton Wilson – GOLD (4x400m)

PITTSBURGH, PA — The USA Track & Field Foundation is excited to announce the 2025 Elite Athlete Development Grant award winners, a select group of athletes receiving targeted funding to advance their professional careers. This year, the Foundation is awarding a total of $750,000 to support track and field athletes pursuing excellence at the professional level, reflecting an exceptional commitment from the Foundation’s Board of Directors and donors.

The Elite Athlete Development program provides support for emerging and mid-career athletes, with an ongoing commitment to easing the financial demands of training and competing at the elite level.

“This year, we took a deliberate step forward in how we support our athletes, by recognizing that financial need is just as critical as performance when it comes to unlocking potential,” said Sarah Lesko, Chair of the Elite Grant Committee. “We’re proud to invest in athletes who not only inspire us with their results, but also show incredible resilience in pursuit of their goals. With Tokyo on the horizon and so much young talent rising, we’ve never been more excited for Team USA and the future of our sport.”

Elite Athlete grants are awarded through a competitive selection process. The Elite Athlete Development applications are carefully reviewed and determined by the USATF Foundation Elite Grant Committee, based on a combination of athletic performance, character references and an extra emphasis on financial need.

“I’m grateful and honored to be selected for an Elite Athlete Development Grant alongside a talented group of fellow athletes. The USATF Foundation has a strong history of supporting Team USA as we pursue wins, medals, and personal bests. As an athlete, you run your best when you’re at peace,” said Elite Athlete Development Grantee Reed Fischer. “The funds provided to athletes helps us focus less on our finances and more on our performance. Thanks to the support of the USATF Foundation, I’m confident the athletes of Team USA are heading into the Tokyo World Championships ready to put our best foot forward.”

The Elite Athlete Development program is dedicated to nurturing the development of track and field talent in the United States. They include both rising stars who are ready to make their mark on the professional circuit and experienced athletes working to refine their craft and achieve new milestones.

The following 45 athletes will receive USATF Foundation Elite Athlete Development Grants in the amount of $15,000 each:

Margot Appleton – 1500m

Adelaide Aquilla – Shot Put

Trevor Bassitt – 400H

Tanner Berg – Hammer

Johnny Brackins – Long Jump

Alexis Brown – Long Jump

Timara Chapman – Heptathlon

Malcolm Clemons – Long Jump

Jeremiah Davis – Long Jump

Annette Echikunwoke – Hammer

Reed Fischer – Marathon

Veronica Fraley – Discus

Jordan Geist – Shot Put

Nate Green – 1500m

Maddie Harris – Javelin

Bailey Hertenstein – 5k

Luke Houser – 1500m

Charity Hufnagel – High Jump

Destiny Huven – 100m Hurdles

Ciera Jackson – Discus

Allie Jones – Heptathlon

Brynn King – Pole Vault

Thomas Kitchell – Shot Put

Bailey Lear – 400m

KC Lightfoot – Pole Vault

Heather MacLean – 1500m

Jessica McClain – Marathon

Hakim McMorris – Decathlon

Marcellus Moore – 100m

Monae Nichols – Long Jump

Jadin O’Brien – Heptathlon

Justin Robinson – 400m

Yasin Sado – Steeplechase

Janeah Stewart – Hammer

Susanna Sullivan – Marathon

Jason Swarens – Shot Put

Demarius Smith – 400m

Max Thomas – 100m

Chloe Timberg – Pole Vault

Jayden Ulrich – Discus

Isaac Updike – Steeplechase

Marcus Weaver – Decathlon

Jessica Woodard – Shot Put

Jacob Wooten – Pole Vault

Clayton Young – Marathon

The following 15 athletes will receive USATF Foundation Elite Athlete Development Grants in the amount of $5,000 each:

CJ Allen – 400m Hurdles

Ronnie Baker – 100m

Tamara Clark – 100m

Freddie Crittenden – 110m Hurdles

Bryce Deadmon – 400m

Quanera Hayes – 400m

Alexis Holmes – 400m

Lynna Irby-Jackson – 400m

Jarrion Lawson – Long Jump

Miranda Melville – Race Walk

Chris Nilsen – Pole Vault

Jenna Prandini – 100m

Daniel Roberts – 110m Hurdles

Jacious Sears – 100m

Britton Wilson – 400m

Please Note: Additional USATF Foundation Adopt an Athlete grant awards will be announced in the coming weeks.

PITTSBURGH, PA — In its 20^th year of awarding Olympic hopeful track & field athletes financial assistance, the USA Track & Field Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 class of Stephen A. Schwarzman grant award winners. This year marks a significant milestone for the program, as grant amounts have increased, providing athletes with more resources than ever to pursue their Olympic and World Championship aspirations. These elite athletes have been recognized for their commitment, hard work and potential to represent Team USA on the world’s biggest stage. The Stephen A. Schwarzman Grant represents the highest honor of support offered by the Foundation, providing an unparalleled level of assistance to Team USA as they head to the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Japan.

In this class, 65 athletes will receive $40,000 Stephen A. Schwarzman Grants, with an additional 35 athletes receiving $30,000 Stephen A. Schwarzman grants. In total, these 100 exceptional individuals will receive $3.65 million in support. These grants provide financial resources to help cover expenses such as training, travel, recovery, medical, living expenses and other vital needs of these professional athletes.

“I’m honored to support these athletes in Tokyo and on the road to Los Angeles,” said Schwarzman. “Their sacrifice and determination to represent our country on the world stage is inspiring and deserves our utmost respect.”

Since the program’s inception in 2013, Stephen A. Schwarzman’s generosity has impacted a multitude of Team USA’s most accomplished athletes, many of whom have gone on to earn Olympic and World Championship medals and now hold American and World records. The 2025 grantees represent a diverse range of events across track, field, and road racing disciplines, unified by their commitment to excellence and their drive to represent the United States.

“I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude for receiving the Stephen A. Schwarzman Grant. This generous support enables us to further our mission on and off the track, while empowering us to make a meaningful impact in our community. This means the world and I would like to thank you Mr. Schwarzman and the team for making this possible!” said Stephen A. Schwarzman Grantee and Olympic Gold medalist Masai Russell.

All USATF Foundation grants are selected from a pool of qualified applicants.  Elite athletes are required to apply each year and are encouraged to complete the process in May or June.  The Stephen A. Schwarzman Grants are decided upon by the USATF Foundation Elite Grant Committee and criteria is based primarily on athlete’s potential to medal at the next Olympic Games or World Championships.  Consideration is also given to monetary need.

The following 65 athletes will receive Stephen A. Schwarzman Grant awards in the amount of $40,000 each:

Valarie Allman – Discus

Brooke Anderson – Hammer Throw

Josh Awotunde – Shot Put

Christopher Bailey – 400m

Anavia Battle – 200m

Heath Baldwin – Decathlon

Kenny Bednarek – 100m and 200m

Donavan Brazier – 800m

Brittany Brown – 200m

Taliyah Brooks – Heptathlon

Claire Bryant – Long Jump

Quanesha Burks – Long Jump

Anna Cockrell – 400m Hurdles

Elise Cranny – 5000m

Ryan Crouser – Shot Put

Vashti Cunningham – High Jump

Maggie Ewen – Shot Put

Grant Fisher – 5k and 10k

Kyle Garland – Decathlon

Robert Gregory – 200m

Isaac Grimes – Long Jump

Anna Hall – Heptathlon

Lexy Halladay-Lowry – Steeplechase

JuVaughn Harrison – High Jump

Nikki Hiltz – 1500m

Cole Hocker – 1500m

Grant Holloway – 110m Hurdles

Bryce Hoppel – 800m

Chase Jackson – Shot Put

Reggie Jagers – Discus

Alaysha Johnson – 100m Hurdles

Sinclaire Johnson – 1500m

Jasmine Jones – 400m Hurdles

Sam Kendricks – Pole Vault

Jonah Koech – 1500m

Courtney Lindsey – 100m

Cooper Lutkenhaus – 800m

Salif Mane – Triple Jump

Sam Mattis – Discus

Shelby McEwen – High Jump

Austin Miller – Pole Vault

Jasmine Moore – Triple Jump

Katie Moon – Pole Vault

Sandi Morris – Pole Vault

Dalilah Muhammad – 400m Hurdles

Payton Otterdahl – Shot Put

Jacory Patterson – 400m

Tripp Piperi – Shot Put

Deanna Price – Hammer Throw

Sha’Carri Richardson – 100m

Rachel Richeson – Hammer Throw

Russell Robinson – Triple Jump

Kenneth Rooks – Steeplechase

Masai Russell – 100m Hurdles

Grace Stark – 100m Hurdles

Ethan Strand – 1500m

Laulauga Tausaga-Collins – Discus

Twanisha Terry – 100m

Curtis Thompson – Javelin

Cordell Tinch – 110m Hurdles

Isabella Whittaker – 400m

Kayla White – 100m

Tyus Wilson – High Jump

Rudy Winkler – Hammer Throw

Nico Young – 10k

The following 35 athletes will receive Stephen A. Schwarzman Grant awards in the amount of $30,000 each:

Jordan Anthony – 100m

Michelle Atherley – Heptathlon

Sanaa Barnes – High Jump

Dylan Beard – 110m Hurdles

Will Claye – Long Jump

Caleb Dean – 400m Hurdles

Rosey Effiong – 400m

Shelby Frank – Discus

Daniel Haugh – Hammer Throw

Meghan Hunter – 800m

Sage Hurta-Klecker – 800m

Gabi Jacobs – Discus

Janee Kassanavoid – Hammer

Trey Knight – Hammer Throw

Joe Kovacs – Shotput

Mya Lesnar – Shotput

Matt Ludwig – Pole Vault

Conner Mantz – Marathon

Emily Mackay – 1500m

Jenoah McKiver – 400m

Khaleb McRae – 400m

Daniel Michalski – Steeplechase

Marc Anthony Minichello – Javelin

Kaylee Mitchell – Steeplechase

Samirah Moody – 100m

Josette Norris-Andrews –5k

Vernon Norwood – 400m

Jessica Ramsey – Shotput

Chris Robinson – 400m Hurdles

Taylor Roe – 10k

Jaida Ross – Shotput

Harrison Williams – Decathlon

William Williams – Long Jump

Madison Wiltrout – Javelin

Parker Wolfe – 5k

PLEASE NOTE: Additional USATF Foundation Elite Athlete Grant awards will be announced tomorrow.

PITTSBURGH, PA —The USA Track & Field Foundation is proud to announce that Eric Rahe, Co-President of J.C. Flowers & Co., has joined its Board of Directors. Eric brings a distinguished career in finance, a lifelong passion for track and field, and a commitment to community service.

“Eric is a fantastic addition to our board given his background in the sport and devotion to supporting track and field athletes,” said USATF Foundation CEO Tom Jackovic.

Eric currently serves as Co-President of J.C. Flowers & Co., a private equity fund focused on the financial services industry. Prior to joining the firm in 2014, he worked at Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, and began his career at Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette. He is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Business School.

Eric’s track journey started at North Central High School in Indianapolis, Indiana, where he earned a runner-up finish in the 4x400m relay at the Indiana State Championships. At Harvard, Eric focused on the 800m and 4x400m relay and served as Co-Captain of the Harvard Track & Field Team during his senior year. His passion for running has carried into adulthood, completing four marathons, but at increasingly slower paces seemingly every year.

In addition to his professional and athletic pursuits, Eric has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service through his role on the Board of the Harlem Educational Activities Fund (HEAF) since 2016. HEAF is an organization dedicated to helping underserved students realize their potential and access educational opportunities.