Huntsville will once again take the national stage this summer as Milton Frank Stadium hosts the USATF Youth Outdoor National Championships from June 24 through June 27.
The multi-day event will bring many of the nation’s top young track and field athletes to Rocket City to compete in sprints, distance races, relays, jumps and throws across multiple age divisions.
“This championship is about more than competition,” said Bernard Lagat, USATF’s general manager of youth programs and a five-time Olympian. “It’s about creating a safe, fun, and engaging environment where young athletes can challenge themselves, build confidence, and develop a lifelong love for the sport.”
City leaders say landing the national championship reinforces Huntsville’s growing reputation as a destination for running and sports tourism.
“Huntsville is proud to welcome the nation’s top young athletes to our city for the USATF Youth Outdoor Nationals,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “Hosting an event of this caliber at Milton Frank Stadium reflects Huntsville’s continued growth as a premier destination for sports tourism and our commitment to supporting youth athletics at every level.”
Milton Frank Stadium has undergone significant upgrades in recent years, including a resurfaced track and expanded throwing areas designed to accommodate major national competitions. Officials say a partnership among the City of Huntsville, Huntsville City Schools, the Huntsville Sports Commission and the Huntsville Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau was key to securing the event.
“Hosting the USATF Youth Outdoor Nationals brings meaningful economic benefits not only to the City of Huntsville, but also to Huntsville City Schools,” said Huntsville City Schools Board President Carlos Mathews. “Building on our successful hosting of the USATF Masters Outdoor Championships in the summer of 2025, events like this continue to elevate Huntsville’s national profile. Together, they move us one step closer to establishing Huntsville as a premier destination for the sport of track and field. We are proud to welcome USATF back to the Milton Frank Fast Track.”
The championship is expected to draw hundreds of athletes, coaches and family members, generating a strong economic impact for the region as visitors fill local hotels, restaurants and attractions.
“Our top priority is creating a championship-level experience for every athlete who steps onto the track at Milton Frank Stadium,” said Mark Russell, executive director of the Huntsville Sports Commission. “From the quality of the facility to the energy in the stands, we want these young competitors to feel like they are part of something special the moment they arrive in Huntsville.”
“For the second straight year, we get to welcome track and field athletes from across the country to Huntsville for a national level meet,” said Joel Lamp, sports development manager for the Huntsville Madison County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “This is tremendous opportunity to showcase our great city to the top young talent from across the country, providing a significant economic impact to our community.”
