USATF Memorandum - World Athletics U20 Championships Lima 24

We are writing to inform you of an important update regarding USATF's participation in the 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships, which will take place this August 26-31 in Lima, Peru.
 
After careful consideration concerning both the domestic & international athletics calendar, consultation amongst the internal team, advice of security consultants and relevant government authorities, it has been decided that USA Track & Field will not be sending a Team to the 2024 World Athletics Under-20 Championships in Peru. Athletes for this Team would have qualified via a top place finish in events at the USATF Under-20 Championships, to be held on June 12-13, 2024, in Eugene, OR. We understand that this decision may be disappointing for those who were looking forward to participating, but we have the responsibility to prioritize the safety and security of all involved.
 
This decision was made after deliberation over the course of several months considering the following factors:

• Safety: Travel advisories issued by the US State Department because of the ongoing civil unrest in the area, and for US citizens generally. The safety and well-being of our athletes, coaches, managers, and staff are of paramount importance to us.
• Event Date: The August 26-31 date of the event is at the end of the summer period and will be problematic for many high school and college athletes as many will have already returned to school/campuses for the 2024-2025 academic year. In addition, schools & colleges distance/cross-country athletes will be early in their cross-country season.
• Competitive Readiness: Despite the competitive opportunities offered by USATF to high school aged athletes through its Association, then Regional, then National Junior Olympic program, many high school and college athletes who might have qualified for Team USA would lack adequate competitive opportunities during the period between the end of the USATF U20 Championships in mid- June until the late August start of the event in Peru - a period of nearly 11 weeks.

This situation would severely limit the competitive readiness for Team USA athletes for this World-level competition.
 
We appreciate your understanding and support in this matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at communications@usatf.org.