12 Aug USATF Foundation Awards Operation Hammer Sweep Grants to Top Finishers at 2026 Toyota USATF Outdoor Championships
The USA Track & Field Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Operation Hammer Sweep Grants following the completion of the hammer throw competitions at the 2026 Toyota USATF Outdoor Championships in New York City.
Operation Hammer Sweep awards direct financial support to the top eight American finishers in both the men’s and women’s hammer throw competitions. The grants recognize outstanding performances at the national championships while providing meaningful financial assistance to elite athletes as they continue pursuing success on the international stage.
Created by two-time U.S. Olympian Ken Flax, together with longtime supporters John and Ellen, in partnership with the USA Track & Field Foundation, Operation Hammer Sweep was established to strengthen the United States’ hammer throw program by investing directly in its top athletes. The initiative continues to reward competitive excellence while helping American hammer throwers prepare for future World Championships and Olympic Games.
Women’s Hammer Throw Grant Recipients
| Place | Athlete | Grant Award |
| 1 | Annette Echikunwoke | $10,000 |
| 2 | Rachel Richeson | $8,000 |
| 3 | Erin Reese | $7,000 |
| 4 | Shelby Moran | $6,000 |
| 5 | Janee’ Kassanavoid | $5,000 |
| 6 | Madison Malone | $4,000 |
| 7 | Jillian Shippee | $3,000 |
| 8 | Giavonna Meeks | $2,000 |
Men’s Hammer Throw Grant Recipients
| Place | Athlete | Grant Award |
| 1 | Rudy Winkler | $10,000 |
| 2 | Alex Young | $8,000 |
| 3 | Trey Knight | $7,000 |
| 4 | Ryan Johnson | $6,000 |
| 5 | Tyler Williams | $5,000 |
| 6 | Texas Tanner | $4,000 |
| 7 | Daniel Haugh | $3,000 |
| 8 | Jordan Crayon | $2,000 |