Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Set to Compete in 400m at Prefontaine Classic in Eugene
Track and field fans are in for a treat as Olympic and world champion Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is set to compete in the 400 meters at the upcoming Prefontaine Classic on July 5. The meet, held annually in Eugene, Oregon, will mark her debut appearance at this prestigious competition, part of the Wanda Diamond League series.
McLaughlin-Levrone, widely regarded as one of the most dominant athletes in modern track and field, is the current world record-holder in the 400m hurdles. However, she will step away from her signature event to race in the flat 400m—a discipline in which she has also proven her exceptional talent. The Eugene crowd will witness her third 400m race of the season, following an impressive 49.69-second performance in Miami back in May. Her personal best in the 400m, an outstanding 48.74 seconds, was also recorded in Eugene during the 2023 season.
Her history in Eugene is already remarkable. Of her six world records in the 400m hurdles, four were achieved at Hayward Field—home of the Prefontaine Classic. The venue seems to bring out the best in McLaughlin-Levrone, and her return is eagerly anticipated.
“I’m excited to participate in this year’s Prefontaine Classic, which holds a special place in the heart of track and field,” said McLaughlin-Levrone in a statement ahead of the event. “I’m looking forward to competing against an incredible field of athletes and can’t wait to see everyone in Eugene.”
Although the women’s 400m is not part of the official Diamond League points program in Eugene this year, McLaughlin-Levrone’s presence adds major star power to the meet. Her participation is a highlight in a lineup already stacked with talent. The Diamond League schedule for the meet includes top-tier events such as the women’s 1500m featuring two-time Olympic champion Faith Kipyegon, the men’s 200m with sprint stars Letsile Tebogo and Kenny Bednarek, and the women’s 100m headlined by world champion Sha’Carri Richardson. World record-holder Ryan Crouser will also compete in the men’s shot put.
With its deep field of elite athletes and the electric atmosphere of Hayward Field, this year’s Prefontaine Classic promises to be one of the most exciting stops on the Diamond League calendar. For McLaughlin-Levrone, it’s another opportunity to showcase her versatility, speed, and dominance in a venue where history has often followed her footsteps.