Waking up the next day to an ocean view and the sounds of sea gulls had me confused for bit (as weird as it sounds). That's when I realized it was race day and the excitement and anxiety kicked In. Usually on race day, any athlete will agree that eating breakfast or any type of foods is the hardest thing to do but for some reason, I managed to eat both breakfast and lunch. Our event wasn't until 7 that night so getting something to eat and staying hydrated was most important.
Later that evening, we arrived at the warm up track just in time to get ready for our 4x2 . Initially, I was supposed to go third but since we all were sub 21, the decision was to put me first. Walking out in front of hundreds of people felt great, seeing yourself on the big screen, and knowing that you're with the greats made me feel as though I made it but more time, work, growth, and training is needed to get me there.
As I got in my blocks, the only thing that went through my mind was my coaches voice - "fire out and hold your drive phase."
Coming out of my drive phase, I could see I was still with the others, Jamaica fairly ahead. I got excited and excitement quickly turned to shock as we didn't complete the baton pass.
Although most people would be upset and disappointed, I was fine. Getting the opportunity to be on the big stage and meeting all these high profile athletes was a hell of an experience. I was grateful to compete.
Track and field has been a major blessing to me and without it, I honestly don't know where I'd be.
Being in the Bahamas was a blessing and I am grateful for the opportunity I had. Leaving the Bahamas was the hardest thing but I'll be back in 2017 ready to showcase again.
For now, it's back to the office.
I. to this day, I still remember him...
II. I then quickly realized this wasn't high school...
III. As I got in my blocks, the only thing that went through my mind was...
