Monday April 8th, 2024
Asafa Powell, Jamaican Sprinting Sensation and PUMA athlete, to attend the 2024 Houston Track and Field Classic in Memphis, TN
Memphis, TN - As the anticipation for the 2024 Houston Track and Field Classic builds, organizers are thrilled to announce the special appearance of none other than the legendary Jamaican sprinter, Asafa Powell.
Asafa Powell, the 4th fastest man in history, will be joining the festivities as a guest of honor to promote event partner the Ed Murphey Classic which is the second stop on the 2024 PUMA American Track League. Fans and enthusiasts will have the unparalleled opportunity to meet the track and field icon up close, as he will be available for exclusive photo opportunities and autograph sessions.
Asafa will be available for autographs and pictures on Saturday, April 13th between 10:30am and 12:30pm at Houston High School.
PUMA American track league owner and president, Paul Doyle, commented: "The American Track League's mission from day one has been to promote the professional side of the sport to give the youth something to aspire to. Having a legend like Asafa Powell come to this amazing meet reaches so many kids in a positive way. The impact is immeasurable!"
"We are beyond excited for this year's Houston track and field classic. To be able to host one of the all time great sprinters, Asafa Powell, is such an honor." said Houston Classic meet director, Scott Hamlett.
Powell's illustrious career is etched with remarkable achievements and record-breaking performances, solidifying his status as a true legend in the world of Athletics. Among his remarkable accomplishments are:
Former 100m World Record Holder: Powell famously held the title of the fastest man on the planet, setting the 100m world record with a blistering time of 9.77 seconds in 2005.
Olympic Success: Representing Jamaica on the world stage, Powell has captured Olympic glory with multiple appearances and podium finishes in the 100m and 4x100m relay events.
World Championships Medalist: Throughout his career, Powell has showcased his dominance at the highest level, clinching numerous medals at the World Championships, including gold, silver, and bronze accolades.
Most Sub-10 Second Performances: Powell's remarkable consistency in breaking the sub-10 second barrier in the 100m dash has solidified his reputation as one of the most reliable and formidable sprinters of his generation. Asafa has broken the 10 second barrier a remarkable 97 times!
Hamlett has been trying to find ways to improve the Houston Classic each year and this year's event will not disappoint: "It is our belief that, through our partnership with the Ed Murphey Classic and PUMA, we can help grow track and field in our region. We appreciate the support of the local track teams who have attended our meet each year, without their involvement we could not have grown the meet." Hamlett expects over 2500 athletes between the middle and high school events making the Houston Classic one of the largest track and field meets in the state of Tennessee.
The inclusion of Asafa Powell in the 2024 Houston Track and Field Classic promises to add an extra layer of excitement and inspiration to an already electrifying event. Fans of all ages are encouraged to seize this rare opportunity to witness greatness in action and interact with a true icon of the sport. Stop by the PUMA and Ed Murphey Classic tents to meet Asafa and learn more about the Murphey Classic and the PUMA American Track League.
"The city of Memphis has a tremendous amount of talented track and field athletes and the Houston Classic will showcase all the top athletes in the area. It was the perfect event for us to partner with to help promote the sport and our professional track and field event July 10th to 13th, the Ed Murphey Classic. It will be such a great opportunity for local kids and fans to meet such a legend in our sport" - Max Paquette, executive director of the Ed Murphey Classic.
The middle school competition is scheduled for Thursday April 11th while the high school events will be spread across Friday April 12th and Saturday April 13th.
For media inquiries, or interviews, please contact:
Max PaquetteExecutive Director, Ed Murphey Classic maxrpaquette@gmail.com, 865-310-7820