Hunter Woodhall is having a monumental year. From groundbreaking financial support for Paralympians to his historic inclusion in the 2025 Prefontaine Classic, the 26-year-old sprinter is at the forefront of a movement reshaping Para athletics.
A Game-Changing Year for Para Athletes
Earlier this year, the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced a revolutionary financial program, granting Team USA athletes a $100,000 retirement benefit and $100,000 in life insurance for every Olympic or Paralympic Games they compete in, totaling $200,000 per Games appearance.
The 2025 Prefontaine Classic, one of track and field’s most prestigious events, is making history by adding four Para athletics events to its lineup on July 5 at Hayward Field. Announced via a FloTrack Instagram post, the news sent shockwaves through the sports world, and Woodhall’s reaction said it all.
“LETS GOOO!!” he commented.
For Woodhall, a double amputee born with fibular hemimelia, this opportunity is a career-defining milestone. Fresh off his gold medal win in the 400m T62 (46.36 seconds) at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, he’ll now compete in the Men’s 200m T62/T64 at the Pre Classic. With American records in the 100m (10.75) and 400m (46.09), Woodhall is poised to captivate a whole new audience.
A Star-Studded Para Lineup
Woodhall isn’t the only Paralympic star set to shine at Hayward Field. Reigning Paralympic 100m gold medalist, Noah Malone, will compete in the Men’s Para 100m mixed classification.
100m T13 bronze medalist Orla Comerford, fresh off a personal best of 11.87 seconds in Oslo, leads the Women’s 100m mixed classification. 22-time Paralympic medalist Tatyana McFadden, will dominate the Women’s 800m T54, holding American records from 100m to 5,000m.
The Prefontaine Classic’s decision to feature Para events alongside able-bodied competitions is a watershed moment for the sport. With increased funding, sponsorships, and media coverage, Para sports are finally getting the recognition they deserve.
As Woodhall prepares to sprint into history at Hayward Field, this is just the beginning. Will the Pre Classic’s bold move pave the way for more integrated events? Can Para athletics reach unprecedented heights?
