ORLANDO, Fla. — In a groundbreaking moment for the state of Florida, Orlando is set to host the Paris 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials this weekend, marking the first time the event has been held in the Sunshine State.
The city’s picturesque streets and vibrant community are buzzing with excitement as elite runners from across the nation converge to compete for a coveted spot on the U.S. Olympic team bound for Paris 2024.
Read more: RRW: Opinion – The Trials Already Have A Winner: USA Women’s Marathoning
Event Schedule and Viewing Information:
The trials will take place in downtown Orlando, with the course winding through some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. For those eager to catch the action live in person, the event is scheduled to begin early Saturday morning, with road closures starting from 5 a.m. to facilitate the race.
Local residents and visitors are advised to plan their travel accordingly, as some streets will remain closed until 4 p.m. – Parking Guide Here.
For fans unable to attend in person, the trials will be broadcast on Channel 9 Eyewitness News, providing comprehensive coverage of this thrilling contest of endurance and determination.
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Nationally, you can also watch the action on Peacock, starting at 10:00 a.m. ET, while NBC will provide a delayed television broadcast at 12:00 p.m. ET.
Key Points to Watch:
- Orlando’s Debut: The city is hosting the Olympic Marathon Trials for the first time, showcasing its capacity to host major sporting events and its beautiful urban landscape.
- Elite Competition: Over 360 top runners, including Olympians and record holders, are set to compete, making it one of the most anticipated trials in recent history. Notable entries include Aliphine Tuliamuck, who represented the U.S. at the 2021 Olympic Games, Conner Mantz, Emily Sisson, and Galen Rupp among others.
- Economic Boost: The event is expected to bring significant economic benefits to local businesses, with a surge in visitors and national attention spotlighting Orlando’s vibrant downtown area.
- Community Spirit: Despite the temporary inconveniences caused by road closures, the community is rallying to support the event, highlighting the city’s enthusiasm for sports and its commitment to excellence.
- Olympic Dreams: For the athletes, the stakes could not be higher. The top three finishers in the men’s and women’s races will secure their spots to represent the United States in the marathon at the Paris 2024 Olympics, fulfilling lifelong dreams of competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage.
