How have you prepared for your senior season, starting with May 5, the day after the 2002 State meet?
My main goal after the state meet was to get my thoughts together on what I expect from myself heading into my senior year.
It's a rare feat for a runner to set a state record their junior year, as you did in the 5A 400m last year. As most records are set by seniors, they do not have to come back to competition the next year to face heightened expectations. Has being the new record-holder and running so fast last year changed the way you've prepared for this season?
Yes, but in a good way. I feel I came into this year ready to run better, expecting to have a better year than last year.
Do you think the heightened expectations will motivate you more, or possibly be a distraction?
|
Each year I deal with some kind of pressure, but I know from experience how to deal with the stresses of competition and how to keep every expectation in perspective. At your one indoor meet this year, you ran against tough competition at the LSU Classic. Your time was a little slower than last year's- does that indicate the shape you're in or do you think you'll be faster this year? LSU was one of those experiences that I had to go through. It wasn't a matter of me being in shape, but getting out and focusing on the race. I didn't do any of those things. |
 Davis scorched a 46.58 for 5A 400m record (photo: Barry Farris) |
What kind of workouts do you do close to the end of the season, when you're in top condition, to tune up for the state meet?
Close to the end of my season, if I am running at my best, I pretty much work on starting techniques and form.
How has running shaped your personality?
Running track has shaped not only my personality, but also the way I look at life as a whole. On the track you have to be patient, and some days you may be off-key. And I feel like I deal with life the same way--taking a patient approach and being thankful for everything I have.
Besides state in May, what meets are you looking forward to as "key" meets in this upcoming season?
I look forward to all meets that we run at home, because my family and loved ones give me a lot of support, and I get to run infront of them.
What are your goals for outdoor--team and individual and relays?
My first goal is to win a state title with my team as a senior, then to try to break the 4*400m state record. My individual goals are to go 10.5 or lower, around 20.7, and to have one of the best 400 meter times in the country.
What would you think of a rematch against Fernanda Blakely? Against Ronnie Elliott?
It would be exciting. I feel they made me a better runner because of the types of races they ran. Every time I ran against them I knew I had to bring nothing but my A-game on to the track and run a smart, strong, and relaxed race.
Even in a 200m race, Arthur Davis can open sizeable gaps against state-caliber competition
(photo: Barry Farris)
Congratulations on your big signing with Mississippi State! What are you looking forward to most about being a Bulldog next year?
Thanks. Running for MSU in the SEC and continuing the strong sprint legacy they have built up over the years, and also adding to a strong longer-sprinter program.
What will it be like to run with Marquis Davis, Pierre Brown, and Dion Crabbe?
One word: AMAZING
Who were the biggest influences to getting you into track, and to what or whom do you attribute any part of your success?
My dad and granddaddy for building my foundation, but I attribute all my success to God for blessing me with the ability to run. Also all of my family members and loved ones who supported me.
In quarterback Jamarcus Russell, you have one of the most famous high school students in the nation as a classmate. In some of his interviews for recruiting interviews, he even mentioned your name: "Ya'll wouldn't even be talking to me if Arthur Davis was out here playing. He'd be so good... I am trying to get him to come out with me." With football getting so much attention, why didn't you give it a try?
I kind of stayed away from football for no reason, really. I mean, I like football, but I love track, so I kind of weighed it out that way.
Has it been hard competing with Jamarcus for recognition as the best athlete in your school?
Jamarcus Russell is a very talented person and I feel to some extent he made me want to compete at another level each year by his performances. I worked to do equally well or better. But at the same time, there's no competing for best athlete at Williamson between us because of the simple fact that we both have had successful high school years, and we respect each other's sport and accomplishments.
Though to your competition you seem invincible, what is your one biggest fear?
Not pleasing God.
What is the greatest thrill from running that you experience regularly?
Traveling to new places, seeing new faces and different cultures.
What has been the high point of your career?
I truly say running itself, being a student athlete who excels not only on the track but in class as well.
Thanks for your time, Arthur!