How to Become an Olympian

To become an Olympian, an athlete must first qualify to compete in the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials (Track & Field to be held in Eugene, Oregon; Men's Marathon in New York, Women's Marathon in Boston, and Race Walk in Palmetto Bay, Florida). See the "athlete information" page of the respective events above to view the qualifying standards and eligibility requirements.

Once qualified, an athlete must compete at the Olympic Trials and, in general, finish in the top 3 in their event in order to make the U.S. Olympic Team. Complete, detailed selection procedures for the Olympic Games are available in the 2008 Olympic Games Selection Procedures section.

For information on how to get started in competitions, as well as find a club, please contact your local USATF Association.