The ambitious Grand Slam Track (GST) league, conceived to inject vital funds into athletics and its athletes, has officially declared bankruptcy, leaving dozens of runners and numerous vendors facing unpaid dues.
Eric Edwards Jr, an emerging hurdler, is among those significantly impacted. According to the league's bankruptcy filing, Edwards is still owed over $19,000 – a relatively small entry among more than 300 people and companies owed some $40 million. For Edwards, this amount represents a substantial portion of his income, intended for rent, fuel, and training expenses.
Speaking to The Associated Press, the 26-year-old recalled his initial reaction to GST's offer: 'I'm like, y'all are crazy.' Now, a different kind of disbelief has set in. 'I never thought a meet would not pay the money,' he stated.
The Association of Athletics Managers released a statement saying they were shocked to hear that Grand Slam Track is moving forward with plans to restart the league later this year, including setting aside $400,000 for athlete recruitment for 2026 before paying 2025 dues. 'The AAM does not support this approach,' the statement said.
According to the filing, GST owes sprinting legend Michael Johnson more than $2.2 million, the result of a loan he made in May. Others owed include Olympic champions Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone ($268,750), Gabby Thomas ($185,625), Marileidy Paulino ($173,125) and world champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden ($175,375).
Edwards, without a shoe deal or major sponsors, now works a part-time delivery job at Amazon to make ends meet while continuing training. He moved back home to Houston to live with his family. 'The 15th-best hurdler in the world can’t even pay rent,' he said. 'All I want is to be able to live comfortably off of all the hard work that I've put in.'
