In the latest move to integrate the Olympic and Paralympic movements in the United States, the U.S. Paralympic track and field program will become part of USA Track and Field.
Starting January 1, para track and field facilities previously managed by the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee will be integrated into U.S. Track and Field.
“The USOPC and USATF collaborating on the Paralympic Track and Field national teams and development programs are setting the stage for unprecedented opportunities and development,” USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. said. “We have been committed to working towards this integrated model because para-athletes have full access to powerful resources, support and training as they pursue excellence and represent Team USA. Because I know it will happen.”
At the Paris Paralympic Games, the U.S. track and field team won 38 medals and 10 gold medals, placing second behind China.
“This change means a lot to me and to para athletics as a whole,” Paris T62 400m gold medalist Hunter Woodhall said in a release. “Becoming part of the USATF team is the right next step for Paralympic athletics and Team USA, and it is incredible to see the investment, dedication, and future we are building together.” It’s exciting.”
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movements have been combined in a variety of ways over the past few years.
In May 2023, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association merged para-alpine skiers and snowboarders into its roster.
The 2021 Tokyo Games will be the first time that Olympians and Paralympians receive the same prize money for their medals from the USOPC ($37,500 for gold, $22,500 for silver, and $15,000 for bronze); It increased by 400%.
In June 2019, the United States Olympic Committee changed its name to the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee.
The USOPC still manages some Olympic and Paralympic sports, such as para-swimming and para-cycling.
The 2024 Paralympic Games were an event that will go down in history. Relive the greatest moments of Ezra Fletch, Matt Stutzman, Ali Truwitt, Steve Serio, Gabriel Araujo and other Paris Paralympic stars.
