MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 8, 2026 — The Ed Murphey Classic will officially kick off its 2026 competition weekend with a press conference on Thursday, July 9, at 12:00 p.m. (CDT) in the Trolley Room at the SpringHill Suites Downtown Memphis.
The 2026 Ed Murphey Classic returns to the University of Memphis on Friday, July 10, showcasing more than 60 Olympians and many of the world’s top athletes as the finale of the inaugural USATF Tour. Competition continues on Saturday, July 11, with the Beale Street Games, featuring the World Shot Put Series, and the John “Buck” Ewing Beale Street Pole Vault.
For 10 years, the Ed Murphey Classic has helped position Memphis as an international destination for elite athletics, welcoming competitors and spectators from around the world while showcasing the city’s hospitality, culture, and sports community. The event brings visitors to Downtown Memphis hotels, restaurants, and attractions during the competition weekend.
“The Ed Murphey Classic continues to show that Memphis can host the very best. Every year, we welcome Olympic champions, rising stars, and fans from around the world, and they experience our city, our people, and our hospitality. Events like this strengthen our economy, support local businesses, and showcase Memphis in a positive light on an international stage.” Memphis Mayor, Paul Young.
Media representatives are invited to attend as Olympic champions, World Championship medalists, rising stars, community leaders, and event organizers gather to preview one of the premier track and field events in North America.
Invited speakers include:
● Memphis Mayor, Paul Young
● First Horizon Foundation Manager, Kate Staggs
● Ed Murphey Classic organizers and partners
Several of the world’s top track and field athletes are expected to participate, including:
Quincy Wilson – Olympic gold medalist and one of the brightest young stars in global athletics after becoming the youngest U.S. male Olympic track and field gold medalist. 400m Under 18 World Record Holder.
Shafiqua Maloney – St Vincent and the Grenadines; 4th in the 800m at the 2024 Paris Olympics, consistently ranked top 15 in the World.
Craig Engels – U.S. champion and World Championship finalist in the 1,500 meters, known for colorful personality and being a fan-favorite athlete.
Harrison Williams – Memphis native (MUS alum), Olympian, U.S. champion, and one of the world’s leading decathletes.
Vashti Cunningham – High Jump World Indoor Champion, 2-Time Olympian, World
Championship Bronze Medalist
Axelina Johansson – 2026 Indoor and Outdoor NCAA champion, World University Games Champion, Swedish National Record Holder
Jordan Scott – World Championship Finalist, World Indoor Silver Medalist, 2024 Olympian from Jamaica
The press conference will provide media with opportunities for athlete interviews, event announcements, and discussions about the impact of the Ed Murphey Classic on Memphis and the global track and field community.
Press Conference Details
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. CDT
Location: Trolley Room, SpringHill Suites Downtown Memphis
Format: 35-40min press conference followed by one-on-one time for media with attending athletes
Members of the media are encouraged to arrive by 11:30am for setup.