Legon to Host Dean Hayes Classic as Final Commonwealth Qualifier in Accra
The University of Ghana, Legon, is set to become the epicenter of Ghanaian track and field this June. Ghana Athletics would officially announce the 3rd Open Championship, titled the Dean Hayes International Athletics Classic, scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026. Honoring Coach Dean Hayes (1937–2022) of MTSU, USA.
This high-stakes event serves as the final opportunity for athletes to secure qualification marks for the upcoming Commonwealth Games and other international competitions.
Honoring a Legend: Coach Dean Hayes (1937–2022)
The championship is named in honor of Dean Hayes, a titan of track and field who dedicated 56 years (1965–2022) to leading Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). His impact on the sport was global, boasting an incredible resume that includes:
1. 59 conference championships
2. 52 All-Americans coached
3. 24 Olympians mentored
4. 15 NCAA Top 25 finishes
His legacy continues to inspire the next generation of Ghanaian athletes as they compete on the track that now bears his name for this international classic.
Strict Selection:
In a move to ensure the highest level of competition, the participation of athletes is strictly by invitation. Athletes would be selected based on their standout performances in the following qualifying events:
1. Kumasi Relay for only Teams
2. Ashanti Superzonals
3. Cape Coast Opens
4. Accra Opens
5. Winneba Relays
6. GUSA Mini Games
7. African Senior Athletics championship Relay Curtain Racer
8. University of Ghana Invitational Athletics Championships
With only the top-ranked performers receiving the call-up, the Dean Hayes Classic is expected to be the most competitive domestic meet of the year.
Event Schedule & Details
The competition will bring together the best talents from across the nation, featuring top performers from the Superzonals, Cape Coast Opens, Accra Opens, GUSA Mini Games and Relays Competitions.
Main Event Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Venue: University of Ghana, Legon
Elite Coaching Clinic
Prior to the main competition, the Coaches Commission would host a specialized sports clinic in collaboration with Ghana Athletics to sharpen the technical skills of local athletes and coaches.
Focus Areas: Long Jump, Triple Jump, Sprints, and Hurdles.
Dates: Wednesday, June 17 – Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Location: University of Ghana, Legon.
The official start lists would be published for public viewing soon.
Athletes and stakeholders can access the lists on:
1. The Ghana Athletics Official Website
2. The SEEDAfrique Website
Note: As this is the final Commonwealth Games qualifier, fans and scouts are expected to turn out in numbers to witness Ghana’s elite talent battle for a spot on the international stage.