* Quincy Wilson won the 400m New Balance National Indoor title in a US No. 1 performance
Photo Credit: Tony Morales
"With hard work, you just never know what you're going to see. I don't want to give myself limits on the times I can run. I'm just going to go out there and do my best" - Quincy Wilson
BOSTON, Mass. -- Quincy Wilson of Bullis School (MD) felt like he was the underdog.
The young freshman from Bullis School was in the 400 meter final at New Balance Nationals on Saturday. His competition? Seniors Zyaire Nuriddin of Montverde Academy (FL) and Jake Andrews of Sehome (WA), who were the second and fourth-fastest runners at the distance this year.
Wilson had earned a freshman class record this season. But a national title?
As he was settling into his blocks, maybe a sliver of doubt crept in. Could he win?
"I'm the underdog," Wilson said with a chuckle Saturday night after his race. "When it comes to March Madness, everyone wants to see the underdog win. Today, I was the underdog going into this race."
Sure enough, the seniors went out hard. Nuriddin and Andrews took control of the race over the first half with fast 200m splits of 21.43 and 21.69.
Meanwhile, Wilson hung tight just a few steps behind.
"My coaches told me they were going to get out," Wilson said. "I had to stay calm. Usually, when I'm running, I'm tense. Today, I told myself I'm going to be calm and patient. That's what I did today."
When the race got tight, Wilson shifted into another gear with 100m left.
As he came off the final turn, he made a move and found himself in the front of the pack. The spectators at the TRACK at new balance were on their feet.
His tactical plan worked.
He crossed the finish line not only as the New Balance National Indoor champion, but he also gained a new U.S. No. 1 performance of 46.67 and improved on his freshman class record.
What's more, Wilson ran the 13th fastest 400m time in high school history.
* Quincy Wilson reflects on his 400m performance at New Balance Nationals Indoor
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