INDIANAPOLIS - The USA Track & Field Foundation Board of Directors has approved $60,000 for elite athlete grant funding in 2007. The funding was approved at the group's meeting in New York City on February 3.

The purpose of the Foundation Elite Athlete Grant Program is to contribute to the pursuit of world-class performances by American post-collegiate track and field athletes who have met minimum performance standards, income criteria and other qualifications.

In 2006, the USATF Foundation made grants ranging from $3,000-$5,000 to eight elite athletes: javelin thrower Leigh Smith, discus thrower Aretha Thurmond, hammer thrower Loree Smith, pole vaulter Justin Norberg, distance runner Brian Olinger, decathlete Jon Ryan Harlan, hammer thrower Travis Nutter and long jumper Brianna Glenn.

"The USATF Foundation is excited to be able to assist so many athletes on their journey to the Olympic Games and we look forward to helping even more in the years to come," said USATF Foundation Executive Director Tom Jackovic.

Elite athletes are encouraged to visit the USATF Foundation website at www.usatf.org/foundation for more information and application materials. Applications from elite athletes already on file with the USATF Foundation will be given consideration through 2007.