Nigeria's Tobi Amusan Joins Star-Studded $2.1 Million Athlos Series

Nigerian track and field sensation, Tobi Amusan, a world record holder in the women’s 100m hurdles, has officially been confirmed to participate in the upcoming Athlos all-female series. This prestigious track and field competition boasts a substantial prize pool of $2.1 million and is scheduled to hold events in London and New York later this year.

Amusan will showcase her prowess in her signature 100m hurdles event at both legs of the series. The London event is slated for September 18, with the New York edition following on October 2. Confirming her participation, the organizers released a statement on Wednesday, declaring, “The world record holder is coming to Athlos. Tobi is taking on what she does best, the 100m hurdles. Watch her compete this fall at ATHLOS LDN & NYC!!”

Founded by Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, the Athlos series encompasses seven distinct disciplines: 100m hurdles, 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, mile, and long jump. Beyond the impressive total prize money of $2.1 million, athletes stand to gain considerably. A victory in any individual event could earn them up to $65,000, while securing the overall series title adds an extra $25,000 to their earnings. Notably, participants will also receive equity stakes in the league, a unique proposition designed to reward them for the league's long-term success.

Ohanian elaborated on this innovative model in a May interview with the BBC, stating, "The cash compensates their participation and success, and the equity recognises what we’re building together. If we get this right, it should properly place these amazing athletes on the same level as they are every four years during the Olympics." He further emphasized the collaborative nature, adding, "This equity is a way for us to have a real partnership. These are the athletes who are the first movers, the ones who are taking a leap and helping us get this started."

Competitors will accumulate points across the seven disciplines in both London and New York, with the athlete garnering the highest combined points being crowned the overall event winner. An athlete who triumphs in individual events in both cities, alongside clinching the overall title, could potentially take home a remarkable $155,000. Amusan is expected to compete against a lineup of formidable international stars, including Sha’Carri Richardson, Gabby Thomas, Tara Woodhall-Davis, Masai Russell, and Marileidy Paulino, all of whom have also been confirmed for the series.