“It’s almost like a flashback journey, everything that brought me to that point” –bemoans the upcoming Olympian with a flourish. Sha’Carri Richardson’s strong family support system helped her to become one of the quickest women in the world. The sixth-fastest woman recently divulged as to how her dreams were given flights of passion and the reason is bound to surprise you.

Richardson grew up in a South Dallas neighborhood, and her path to becoming a track standout started with a series of family races forever changed her desire to be an athlete. The 24-year-old recalls her intense races against her aunt Shay Richardson, the family’s previous track star, in vivid detail. It was about the lessons discovered on those streets, not simply running. However, Richardson remembers the moment when she outran her aunt for the first time.

Sha’Carri Richardson’s athletic potential was greatly fostered by her family, particularly by her grandmother and aunt. Frequently, she would race her aunt Shay to their grandmother’s car from the base of a hill. “We’d go from the bottom of the hill to Big Momma’s car. And she didn’t slow down, she didn’t let me win,” Richardson added. “And I think it was in fifth grade, the day I touched the car first. And that’s when I knew.” Shay Richardson, her aunt, never allowed her to win. Her love of running was sparked by this incident, which also gave her a burning desire to succeed.

Richardson recounts being fascinated as a young girl by the medals her aunt had won and displayed on her grandmother’s wall. She began racing her aunt, who had high standards, after becoming influenced. The sixth-fastest American woman in history had never dreamed of being a champion until her first victory in these family races, which was a turning point. She was driven to make it big and acquire the discipline needed to succeed by this early competition, which set the groundwork for her track career.

Moreover, her exceptional talent was observed by Lauren Cross, Richardson’s high school coach. Coaches understand they have an excellent player when they are par exemplary and driven to succeed, according to Cross. By the time she graduated from high school, Richardson had broken state records in Texas and was the top-ranked female sprint recruit in the country due to her constant effort. However, Richardson’s success is rooted in her familial ties.

Sha’Carri Richardson’s familial support

The impact of Richardson’s family, especially her grandmother, is crucial to her success. Harp remarks, “Sha’Carri is tough; I made her tough.” Richardson’s ability to bounce back from setbacks and hardships has been key to her career accomplishments. Coach Cross and Richardson’s aunt Shay also had a big impact by giving advice and encouragement.

Additionally, the “flashback journey” is vital for Sha’Carri Richardson. “Everything I am, it’s because of that strong, wise Black woman,” Richardson continued, addressing Big Momma. She became a great athlete with her base of strength and support. The gold medallist is motivated by the lessons and ideals her family has instilled in her to stay focused on her targets as she gets ready for the Olympics in Paris.

Moreover, Richardson cherishes the present in the run-up to the Olympics, striking a balance between intense training and happy moments. “Every time I step onto the track, I think of all those moments when I was younger—all those feelings are still with me, I’m just that little girl grown up,” the 24-year-old added. Thus, Sha’Carri Richardson is carrying a legacy of familial backing and her unshakable drive for success with her as she pursues her gold dream.