The Grand Slam Track event in Kingston was expected to be a celebration of the sport. With lucrative financial incentives, and the attendance of world-class athletes like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Gabrielle ‘Gabby’ Thomas. Yet, despite thrilling performances, the atmosphere felt more like a practice session than a global showcase. Kingston’s National Stadium, which can hold 35,000 fans, was far from full, with only around 6,000 attendees in the stands. The event may have delivered electric performances, but the crowd’s absence left a noticeable void that organizers are determined to fill in the future. So what lessons are they taking home from Kingston?
Acknowledging the disappointing turnout, Grand Slam Track officials are already taking steps. To ensure a better experience at their upcoming Miami meet. With a fresh strategy in place, they are focused on driving up attendance and creating a more engaging atmosphere for fans. These efforts aim to foster stronger community connections and avoid the empty-seat struggles that plagued Kingston. The excitement on the track will certainly be a highlight. But there will be more on the table to make it a magnetic experience and pull people in.
Olympic medalist Rori Dunk tweeted on X, highlighting, “The young athletes (6-18) will have a chance to shine at Grand Slam again! ” This announcement has certainly caught the attention of the track and field community. With races like the 100m, 400m, and 800m, the upcoming Miami meet promises not just fierce competition but also opportunities for youth to showcase their talent. And there’s more! Fans can look forward to meet-and-greets with pros. Free ice cream, and the chance to experience the high-energy atmosphere of the stadium. All for free admission. The event is set for May 4th from 1-3 PM, making it a perfect family outing. Plus, parents won’t be left out, as there are special discounts just for them!
The young athletes (6-18) will have a chance to shine at Grand Slam again!
•100m, 400m, 800m races
•Meet & greet with the pros
•Free ice cream
•Stadium entry to watch the stars!
May 4th @ 1-3PM — don’t miss it!
*Parents get a discount too! pic.twitter.com/u5O4JRfDS1
— RoriDunk (@FitzDunk) April 27, 2025
This proactive approach aims to remedy whatever led to the lackluster turnout in Kingston, where the Grand Slam Track event struggled to fill the National Stadium. As analyst Leighton Levy pointed out, “The crowd engagement itself was fine, but the number of people who showed up wasn’t what organizers were expecting.” Levy echoed GST visionary, Michael Johnson’s sentiments. Expressing disappointment at the crowd size despite the excitement on the track. He offered insights into the missteps that could have impacted the Kingston turnout, suggesting the organizers failed to fully grasp the cultural and logistical nuances of Jamaica. Moreover, timing seemed to play a part, as events on Friday evening clashed with work schedules and traffic, while Sunday traditions centered around family and home life kept many from attending.
As the Grand Slam heads to Miami, Johnson and other organizers have learned a thing or two. They are determined to avoid the same pitfalls. The Miami meet is shaping up to be an event that caters to the community. Promising an engaging experience for both fans and athletes alike. And in response to these lessons, the organizers took to X to announce their upcoming initiatives, confirming that they are not only learning from past experiences but are committed to making the Miami event a resounding success.
Grand Slam Track set to heat up in Miami
The Grand Slam Track, conceived by legendary four-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson, is quickly making its mark on the world of track and field. From Kingston’s first stop, the league raised expectations, bringing sprint royalty to the stage. Gabby Thomas, Kenny Bednarek, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone set the tone with impressive victories. Making it clear that the Grand Slam would be a high-octane spectacle. However, the absence of major names like Noah Lyles and Julien Alfred left some fans wondering what was next for the league. Fortunately, Johnson’s vision is far from limited.
Drawbacks and the absence of top athletes aside, the first leg of the Grand Slam Track went a mile to revolutionize track as we know it. Now with the Miami edition of the Grand Slam Track just around the corner, slated to be held May 2nd to 4th at the Ansin Sports Complex in Miami. Could there be a better venue than this, we don’t think so! “From sunrise to sunset, Miami never stops. A melting pot where culture weaves a vibrant past, present, and future. There’s magic here — magic you can feel, touch, and taste. In a city as electric and dynamic as its people, it is a place where the fastest rise.” Johnson himself had set the expectations sky-high for Miami.
Michael Johnson has teased both familiar faces and newcomers. Suggesting that this next meet will bring even greater challenges. “In Miami, you’ll see some different challenges than in Philadelphia and L.A. But you’ll see some of those same challenges here,” he hinted, keeping fans on edge. The message is clear: no one’s place is guaranteed, and every race could shift the rankings. As the challengers line up, the anticipation continues to build.
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