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US sprinter Gabby Thomas had a powerful speech at the USATF Awards gala, urging budding runners to avoid self-doubt if they want to achieve success.
Triple Olympics champion Gabby Thomas has sent out a strong message of encouragement to younger runners, telling them not to give up no matter what.
Thomas was crowned the Joyner Kersee Athlete of the Year at the US Track and Field awards gala in Orlando, Florida on Saturday with the event coinciding with her 28th birthday.
Having had to overcome self-doubt at the start of her career to become a world beating sprinter, Thomas sought to assure young runners that they can achieve whatever they put their minds to as long as they have the will.
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“When I was younger, I had big dreams too. Dreams that oftentimes scared me because I felt like they were too far away. But here’s what I want you to know. You are capable of far more than you can imagine,” Thomas said.
“The world will try to tell you to be realistic or to do things a certain way or that certain things are not meant for you. Don’t listen. Your dreams, no matter how big they are, are valid.”
“Rest if you need to, but never stop. And remember, your dreams can inspire others one day. So don’t hold back; be bold, be brave, and dream big.”
Indeed, Thomas had to summon enough courage to make it as a sprinter after her mother signed her up to the sport having started out a soccer player while coaches in school were also strict with her.
The sprinter kept dreaming and remained disciplined, going on to reap the benefits, as he is now one of the most revered runners after winning three gold medals at the Paris Olympics in 200m, 4x100m and 4x400m, a feat last achieved by Allyson Felix at the London 2012 Games.
She is back in training as she prepares for the 2025 World Championships where she hopes to improve her silver medal won in 2023 to gold in 200m and perhaps add more relay titles to her collection.
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