Congrats on a big MLK meet. You had a lifetime PR in the 400m and a sub 2:00 in the 800m. How do you feel following a successful weekend Particularly with where you wanna be at this point in the season?
Honestly, Monday was one of the best days of my life, not just because of how the meet went but because of how many younger athletes came up to me and told me how I was inspiring them. It just brought me back to when I was in their position saying the same thing to other athletes. I feel like I'm at a very good spot right now in the season following Monday's performances.
Who were a few athletes you looked up to when you were younger? Did they impart any meaningful knowledge to you?
People like Jarell Stinson, Ethan Strand, and Jonathan Martin. They taught me to never give up on the goals you set for yourself no matter how hard things get.
What are some goals you've set for yourself that you're still chasing for the rest of Indoor and all of Outdoor?
I'm looking to break 49 in the 400m and 1:52 in the 800m by the end of my high school career as well as win my first individual State title.
What got you into running?
The P.E. coaches in elementary school kept telling me to run track and once I started, my love for the sport grew more and more.
You recently committed to continue running at Mississippi College. What went into that decision?
I really liked their coach and felt like I could trust him all the way. I also feel like I can really thrive there based on how welcoming the team was to me.
What do you plan on studying?
I plan on studying either kinesiology or biomedical science.
What's your favorite event?
4x400m.
Who would be on your dream 4x400m team with you?
I'd put Michael Johnson first, I'll go second, Michael Johnson third, and then Wayde van Niekerk as the anchor.
If you won the lottery, what are the first three things you'd do with it?
First, I wouldn't tell anyone. Then I'd take a trip to Dubai with my family and friends and then probably start my own fitness and sport business.
What will you miss most about high school track and field?
I'll definitely miss my teammates the most and working with them through Indoor and Outdoor and the memories we've had together. I'll also miss my coaches and Coach Brigham's famous quotes.
You've gotta give me some of Coach Brigham's famous quotes!
"Two mice fell into a mixer of cream. The first one gave up and drowned in the cream. The second one kept spinning around until the cream turned to butter and made it out. Be the second mouse."
"If I don't see you around, I'll see you square."
"Let's put some grease in that frying pan."
Lastly, if I gave you an elephant and you couldn't sell it or give it away, what would you do with it?
I would definitely ride the elephant to school every day because of how bad traffic has been recently. I'd probably get there quicker and I live 30 minutes away (my Old Shell Road people can confirm).
