Meet the Leaders Behind WXC Tallahassee 26
When the World Athletics Cross Country Championships come to Tallahassee, Florida, on January 10, 2026, the world’s best distance runners will take on the signature terrain of Apalachee Regional Park. Leading the effort to bring this global event to life are Co-Chairs Taylor Wheaton and Amanda Heidecker, and Executive Advisor Paul Hardy: three individuals whose combined experience bridges international expertise, athletic insight, and community leadership.
Taylor Wheaton, Co-Chair
As Senior Sports Director for Visit Tallahassee, Taylor Wheaton leads the strategic vision and operational delivery of WXC Tallahassee 26, guiding logistics, sponsorships, marketing, and event services to match international expectations while reflecting Tallahassee’s local identity.
“One of the most exciting parts of my role is shaping how we tell the story of this event to the world,” she says.
A former NCAA Division I track and field athlete at George Mason University, Wheaton understands the athlete’s experience and brings that perspective to every decision. “Competing in college gave me discipline, resilience, and an appreciation for how events of this scale impact athletes, coaches, and cities alike.”
For Wheaton, leading the planning of WXC Tallahassee 26 marks a career highlight. “To be entrusted with something of this magnitude on a global stage is both humbling and thrilling,” she reflects. “This is more than a one-day race — it’s a once-in-a-generation opportunity to show the world what Tallahassee and Leon County have to offer.”
Amanda Heidecker, Co-Chair
Amanda Heidecker, Director of Parks and Recreation for Leon County, oversees logistics, financial planning and operations for the championships. A former Division I cross country and track athlete at Florida State University, Heidecker brings both passion for the sport and deep local knowledge to her leadership role.
“Running opened doors to education, laid the foundation for my career, and continues to be a daily source of motivation,” she says. Since joining Leon County in 2013, Heidecker has helped expand sports tourism, led more than 100 cross country events, and managed the development of community parks and trail systems.
Leading the successful bid to bring the 2026 World Championships to Tallahassee stands out as a defining moment. “As a former FSU athlete, this opportunity is a full-circle moment,” she says. “It’s more than an event — it’s a legacy project that will inspire future generations and showcase our community on an international stage.”
Paul Hardy, Executive Advisor
With experience from 13 previous World Cross Country Championships and a career spanning more than 40 countries, Paul Hardy brings an unmatched global perspective to the organizing committee. He advises on operations, strategy and event innovation to ensure that Tallahassee delivers a championship worthy of the world stage.
“My role is to provide advice, guidance and innovative ideas to help ensure efficient operations and to deliver a unique, amazing event and meaningful experience for all stakeholders,” Hardy explains. Working closely with Wheaton and Heidecker, he applies lessons learned from past championships to strengthen planning and teamwork. Hardy says the most rewarding part of his career has been the people he’s met around the world. “Experiencing so many cultures has taught me adaptability and flexibility — the greatest life lesson I could ever learn.”
For WXC Tallahassee 26, his goal is simple: connection. “We look forward to seeing as many people as possible out cheering on the world’s greatest athletes — and then having the opportunity to run on the same course just minutes later.”
Experience the World in Tallahassee
Together, Hardy, Wheaton, and Heidecker are working to deliver a championship that reflects excellence and community pride.
“It’s not just about the race,” Hardy says. “It’s about creating an experience that everyone — from athletes to volunteers — will never forget.”
Join the global celebration on January 10, 2026, at Apalachee Regional Park. Be part of history — get your tickets and event updates here.
