Athletes of all ages compete in first ever Stanley Floyd Invitational at Hugh Mills Stadium over the weekend

ALBANY, Ga. – Over the weekend, I took a trip to Hugh Mills Stadium for the very first Stanley Floyd Invitational. It was an event where you saw track athletes of all ages showcasing their skills and having a great time while doing so.

It’s not every day young athletes get the chance to learn from a world-class competitor.

Albany native and Olympic sprinter Stanley Floyd created this event to inspire and support his hometown community.

Athletes ages 5 to 17 took to the track, representing their schools and competing in a variety of events, making for a fun-filled day of fitness and friendly competition.

“Real great. I think Steven Belk did a great job of getting these kids out. And, then, you are representing Dougherty County and got guys like Stanley Floyd, who did some amazing things. And, for him to come back and for the kids to get a chance to meet and get out here and participate in this sport,” said Dallis Smith, Volunteer, Coach.

Floyd partnered with the City of Albany to make this event possible, aiming to encourage physical activity and grow the sport of track and field.

The day kicked off with younger children competing in various events, leading up to the older athletes racing in their specialized competitions, showcasing some of the fastest talent in South Georgia.

“It’s important because there are a lot of kids. They need to be involved in something especially during the summer months. And, quite sure, just like in the past when I was in school and other kids after me were able to seem like the sports, especially track and field, are being minimized. A lot of kids are losing interest. You know, we got all the video games and everything else. But, as far as athletics and mental wellness go, you need to be out on the track doing something more challenging and giving a better way of health,” said Stanley Floyd, Olympic track and field star.

This was just the beginning for the Stanley Floyd Invitational. Floyd and the City of Albany hope to make this an annual tradition, with plans to bring even more Olympic athletes to future events.

Gabe Hutton reporting.

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