NEW YORK CITY - In a major breakthrough for the sport of track-and-field in the United States, Reebok International Ltd. will launch a new, world-class event - the Reebok Grand Prix - on June 11, organizers announced today.

The Reebok Grand Prix, featuring an array of Olympic and World Championship medalists, will be the first international competition ever held in the new Icahn Stadium on Randall's Island, and marks the return of world-class outdoor invitational track-and-field to the East Coast.

"We're thrilled to again team up with Reebok to put on an Olympic- caliber athletics event," said Mark Wetmore, meet director and president of Global Athletics & Marketing, Inc. "It's a perfect combination. New Yorkers are some of the greatest sports fans in the world, and with the support of Reebok we plan to provide them with some of the best track- and-field action in the world."

Global Athletics & Marketing, Inc., also produces the Reebok Boston Indoor Games. In a sold-out arena last January, fans got the chance to see 12 exciting races that included nine 2004 Olympic medalists and a new world record. The events and athletes to be featured at the Reebok Grand Prix will be announced soon.

Title sponsorship of the New York event is another in Reebok's recent initiatives to enhance the sport of running. In addition to the Reebok Grand Prix and the Reebok Boston Indoor Games, the Canton, Mass.- based firm has also recently become a sponsor of the Paris Marathon and the European Indoor Championships, among other events.

Icahn Stadium is the premier outdoor track-and-field venue in New York City. The $42-million facility features a 400-meter Mondo track and covered seating for spectators.

The Reebok Grand Prix will be the fifth stop of USA Track & Field's Visa Championship Series, and will be televised live on NBC from 4-5:30 p.m. ET. Tickets will go on sale May 11 at www.ReebokGrandPrix.com.