Introduction
Richelle Williams, a standout athlete at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), has made remarkable strides in track and field despite her late start in the sport. Her journey from a high school freshman discovering track to becoming a record-breaking collegiate athlete shows her dedication, passion, and hard work.
The Spark of Her Track and Field Journey
Williams’ athletic journey began at Fort Pierce Central High in Florida, where she first explored track and field during her freshman year. Initially, it was a way to stay active after volleyball season, but it quickly became much more. “I was a volleyball player before I started running track, but the team dynamic and my coach, Coach Wilder, really brought out that spark and love for track and field,” she recalls.
Choosing Track and Field
Despite her initial focus on volleyball, Williams found something uniquely compelling about track and field. “Track is a very pinpoint sport. It’s you versus everyone else, you versus you. You either PR or you don’t, you’re fast, or you’re not, you win, or you don’t,” she explains. This clarity and competitive spirit drew her deeper into the sport.
High School Achievements
Williams’ talent quickly became apparent. She became a three-time all-conference athlete and a two-time 400m district champion at Fort Pierce Central High School. However, she didn’t think of such success when she started. “I was only doing track because volleyball season was over. I wasn’t expecting to go to college for it or to excel as much as I did,” she admits.
Realizing Her Potential
During the summer of her sophomore year, transitioning into her junior year, Williams began to see her potential. “I realized, okay, I want to go to college for this. I want to do this long term. This is my passion,” she says. Her dedication paid off, leading her to FAU, where she continued to shine.
Breaking Records at FAU
A significant achievement marked Williams’ freshman year at FAU. Breaking the indoor record for the 300m. “I did not expect to break any records, considering it was my first time running indoors. I was scared out of my mind, but I ran it smoothly and broke the record,” she shares. This accomplishment was a proud moment that boosted her confidence and motivation.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Preferences
When it comes to track preferences, Williams favors outdoor events. “I enjoy outdoors more. The events, the times, everything just feels faster,” she says, highlighting the differences between indoor and outdoor tracks.
Inspiration and Idols
Williams draws inspiration from several track legends, including Sha’Carri Richardson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and Sydney McLaughlin. “Sha’Carri Richardson, love her, love her spirit, and love her attitude. I love how she came back from such a loss, and to come back and win gold is amazing. I am also a big fan of Shelly Ann, considering I am Jamaican. Shelly-Ann is a mother in her late 30s, and she’s still rocking stuff. She’s been rocking things since the early 2000s. Sydney McLaughlin, I love her energy, how she is, the definition of me versus me. She’s out here breaking her own records back to back to back, no matter how good she gets. No matter how good you think she can get, she gets even better I love that about her,” said Williams.
Advice for Aspiring Athletes
To young athletes, Richelle Williams emphasizes the importance of consistency. “Track is such a mental sport. Even on bad days, just being there and starting your day to do what you love is key,” she advises.
Pre-Race Rituals
Richelle Williams has a unique pre-race routine that combines prayer and music. “I pray in the hotels before my races and listen to dancehall music to get riled up,” she reveals. This blend of spiritual and cultural preparation helps her focus and energize before competing.
Conclusion
Williams’s journey from a high school freshman exploring track to a record-breaking athlete at FAU is a story of passion, dedication and resilience. Her achievements and attitude inspire aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that anything is possible with consistency and love for the sport.
See Richelle Williams Track Statistics
