'Wish there was more of it' - Sha'Carri Richardson agrees with Noah Lyles on the need for personality-driven track and field revolution

'Wish there was more of it' - Sha'Carri Richardson agrees with Noah Lyles on the need for personality-driven track and field revolution

Mark Kinyanjui 09:30 - 07.12.2024

Sha'Carri Richardson, who has never been one to shy away from expressing her personality, has agreed with Noah Lyles on the importance of athletes having a persona.

American sprint sensation Sha’Carri Richardson has highlighted the significance of cultivating a strong personality for success in track and field, echoing sentiments expressed by fellow sprinter Noah Lyles.

 Both athletes believe that showcasing individuality can elevate the sport, drawing in new fans and transforming how it’s perceived.

Richardson, renowned for her bold confidence, emphasised the value of athletes embracing their personas. 

“Having a persona in this sport helps with the reality of what you have to go through and deal with,” she explained on Sprint season one, adding that self-expression enables athletes to channel their energy effectively.

Lyles, celebrated for his electrifying presence on and off the track, has been a vocal advocate for athletes embracing their uniqueness. 

During an interview with GQ last September, he posed a challenge to the track and field community: "How are we going to shift the idea of track and field in people’s minds to where this is entertainment?"

The charismatic sprinter cited Usain Bolt as a source of inspiration for his belief that athletes shouldn’t shy away from criticism over being perceived as arrogant. 

"Bolt told me the same thing. It’s nice to not have everyone criticize you constantly and call you cocky and arrogant," Lyles shared.

Lyles fondly recalled Kishane Thompson’s vibrant display of personality during athlete introductions ahead of the 100-meter final at the Paris Olympics. “Kishane comes down yelling, and I’m like, ‘Oh, hold on, that’s me!’” Lyles recounted. “I loved it because I want to see more personalities come through. It gets me excited to run.”

He urged more athletes to come out of their shells, insisting that dynamic introductions and authentic expressions create a better experience for fans and competitors alike. “We need more of it,” he declared.

Richardson also took the opportunity to commend her coach, Dennis Mitchell, for the rigorous standards he maintains at Star Athletics Club in Florida. The former sprinting powerhouse has played a pivotal role in shaping Richardson’s career, helping her channel her talent into consistent performances.

“My coach, when he was on the scene, was a force to be reckoned with,” Richardson said. “He is adamant about everything. If you’re in his group, you’re going to have to work hard, regardless of your talent. We complement each other very well.”

Richardson didn’t hold back in her admiration for Mitchell. “He is the best. You can quote me on that,” she affirmed, underscoring their shared ambition to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

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