Ghana Athletics' hopes of securing the prestigious Member Federation Award at the World Athletics Awards 2024 were dashed, as USA Track & Field (USATF) was named the winner of the coveted prize.

The award, which celebrates a federation's outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport, highlighted USA Track & Field’s dominance in 2024.

Despite Ghana's commendable strides in athletics, it was USATF that stood out among the six shortlisted federations.

Nominated by their respective area associations, these federations represented the best of global athletics. However, the USA’s unparalleled performance on the world stage tipped the scales in their favour.

The US team dominated the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, claiming an extraordinary 34 medals, including 14 golds. Among their standout performances were Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s record-breaking run in the 400m hurdles and the mixed 4x400m relay team’s world record.

Their success extended beyond Paris, with top finishes at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, where they bagged 16 medals, and the World Athletics Indoor Championships in Glasgow, where they secured 20 medals.

Reflecting on the accolade, USATF CEO Max Siegel said: “This recognition is a testament to the incredible dedication, talent, and teamwork of our entire USA Track & Field family. From our staff to our athletes, coaches, and volunteers, everyone has played a part in this success.”

While Ghana has made significant progress in athletics in recent years with athletes like Benjamin Azamati, Rose Yeboah, Joseph PaulAmoah, Mary Boakye, Cadman Evans, Yamoah, James Dadzie, and many others, this year’s award signals the need for further development and investment to compete with global powerhouses in track and field.

Ghana Athletics, the federation can draw inspiration from the USA's holistic approach, using it as a blueprint for growth. With key international competitions, including the LA28 Olympic Games, on the horizon, there is ample opportunity for Ghana to solidify its position on the global athletics stage.

The World Athletics Awards continue this weekend, with the announcement of the World Athletes of the Year and Rising Stars on Sunday, December 1.