Alexis Ohanian’s Vision: Transforming Track Athletes into Global Superstars
Captivating the World: Athlos Aims to Revolutionize Women’s Track and Field
Athlos: A New Era for Women’s Track and Field
Women’s track and field athletes often shine during the Olympics, only to fade from the limelight in the intervening years. Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian is determined to change this scenario with Athlos, an innovative women’s track and field event. Athlos aims to spotlight these athletes, showcasing their power and expanding their reach through platforms like Instagram.
Breaking Boundaries: Athlos’ Inaugural Success
The inaugural Athlos event took place in September 2024 at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island, attracting 35 top female track athletes like Marileidy Paulino and Gabby Thomas. Drawing three million viewers across streaming and broadcast platforms, the event set a new precedent in track sports entertainment.
Expanding the Reach of Women’s Sports
This year, Athlos returns to Icahn Stadium, with events streaming on platforms such as X, YouTube, and Ion. Ohanian’s vision extends beyond the event itself; he seeks to propel women’s sports into the mainstream, offering athletes the opportunity for fame akin to that of his wife, tennis legend Serena Williams.
Integrating Sports and Social Media
The potential of women’s track to captivate global audiences, particularly through social media, is a key focus for Ohanian. “In sport, our job is to capture attention,” he notes, underscoring the viral potential of athletic feats on platforms like Instagram.
Investing in the Future of Women’s Sports
Ohanian’s entrepreneurial spirit drove him to launch Seven Seven Six, a venture capital firm, in 2020. His track record includes investments in Angel City FC of the National Women’s Soccer League and a stake in Chelsea Women’s FC. These ventures reflect a strategic focus on elevating women’s sports on a global scale.
Creating a New Legacy for Athletes
Ohanian’s investment in women’s track is informed by data showing the significant following female athletes can command. He draws parallels to the rise of women’s tennis, citing it as a model for future success in track and field.
The Social Media Landscape and Athlos
The connecting power of social media is central to Athlos’ strategy. With athletes like Alica Schmidt and Sha’Carri Richardson amassing millions of followers, the landscape for women’s track is ripe for expansion.
A Vision Beyond Track and Field
Beyond the spectacle of Athlos, Ohanian sees a future where track events become part of a year-round, team-based league inspired by the Formula One model. This initiative aims to maintain athletes’ visibility and engagement across seasons.
A Broader Scope: Ohanian’s Investments
Ohanian’s influence extends well beyond athletics, with significant investments through his firm, Seven Seven Six. His portfolio includes ventures like Mr. Beast’s Feastables and a health company for which Serena Williams serves as an ambassador.
The Future of Social Media
Looking ahead, Ohanian is contemplating the next evolution in social media. He predicts a shift towards group chats, valued for authenticity and meaningful interactions, paving the way for innovative platforms that echo this change.
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