The first time I knew I wanted to run track in college was in 8th grade. I qualified for the district meet and ended up placing 4th overall in the 1500 and broke the middle school record, which had been set before I was even born. It was at that moment when I felt a real rush and excitement for the sport. Although that ignited a passion, I learned the most during my freshman year where I chose to run for East Orlando Track Club and not my high school. Training with my club coach helped me mature as an athlete. This is when I really realized how much work and commitment was required for me to compete at a higher level. In 2019, I qualified for the USATF Junior Olympics in Sacramento,California in the 3000 and the 1500. While I had only been training and competing in 3000 for a very short time, I finished in the top 30 for both events!
This year, I decided to join my highschool team and compete for my club after their season ended. While I know that my track career is far from over, I have had the privilege to compete for two teams in both club and highschool. And while this season was cut short, I know that I was developing into a better runner and I have continued to train while we were unable to have meets or practice. I want the college I attend to not only be fit for me athletically but academically. I believe that I can compete at the collegiate level not only because of my talent but because of my work-ethic, character and coachability. My grandfather is a huge influence in my life both athletically and just as a person overall. He is in the Ball State hall of fame for track and field and still holds records in events there. Ironically, I didn’t know this until very recently because my family wanted to make sure that but I was running for the love of the sport and not because of him. When I am running, I feel strong, energized and a feeling of accomplishment that is like no other. I cannot wait to continue my running career in college and bring my talent, passion, commitment and to your team!
Event | 2020 Varsity Team |
---|---|
4x800M (Split) | 2:02 |
800M | 2:04 |
1600M | 4:44 |