Orlando Standard

Orlando is gearing up to host the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Marathon, where the nation's top male and female long-distance runners will compete for the chance to represent Team USA at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. The event, scheduled for Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10am EST, will take place in downtown Orlando and its surrounding neighborhoods. The City of Orlando, in collaboration with Orange County, Track Shack Events, the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, Visit Orlando, USA Track & Field, and the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, is proud to host this prestigious event.

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer expressed his excitement about hosting the trials, stating, "We are thrilled to once again host another marquee event that puts our community on the national stage. The US Olympic Team Trials – Marathon not only showcases our status as the country’s top sports destination but also creates an exciting opportunity to bring our residents together to cheer on our nation and support our top US athletes."

The Greater Orlando Sports Commission, at a press conference, thanked the local organizations involved in supporting the trials and provided updates on how fans can watch the race. The commission encouraged fans to gather at several downtown locations for a great view of the race and directed them to visit Orlando2024Trials.com for the most up-to-date information and spectator viewing map.

Jason Siegel, President & CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, expressed his gratitude for the community's support and confidence in delivering a remarkable experience for the athletes and their families. He said, "Our community is extremely confident that we will deliver an 'unbelievably real,' once-in-a-lifetime experience for these elite athletes and their families."

The event organizers, Track Shack, revealed that 1,500 volunteers are trained and ready to welcome the athletes and visitors. They also highlighted the positive feedback received from athletes during a test event held in December, where they praised the fast, flat, and fan-friendly nature of the race course.

Keith Brantly, a 1996 Olympian and lifelong distance runner, expressed his appreciation for the investment made by the City of Orlando, Orange County, Visit Orlando, and the local organizing committee. He said, "I can't wait for the residents of Orlando to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event."

To ensure minimal impact on the community, the City of Orlando provided information about road closures, pedestrian movement, detours, and parking. City officials have established a dedicated website, email, and hotline for residents and businesses to access information specific to their location and address any transportation-related questions. On the day of the event, the community can call the city's Emergency Information Center for assistance.

Jim Young, City of Orlando Transportation Department Special Events Division Manager, assured the public that efforts have been made to manage road closures and reduce impacts. He explained the different levels and zones designated for residences and businesses along the marathon route, indicating the access restrictions and alternative access points available for each level.

With the countdown to the 2024 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Marathon underway, Orlando is ready to showcase its vibrant, inclusive, and diverse community. As the first Florida city to host this event, Orlando is set to deliver a world-class experience for the athletes, partners, and running enthusiasts from around the globe.

For more detailed information on road closures, parking, and pedestrian access, residents and businesses can visit Orlando.gov/olympicroadclosures.