A Cinderella story has emerged in Oregon at the US Olympic trials in the form of 16-year-old sensation Quincy Wilson. Wilson broke two records over the weekend in the 400 meters, running a 44.66 in the first round on Friday. On Sunday, he set the Under 18 record with a 44.59.
Competing against athletes twice his age, his confident demeanor and elite ability have the country buzzing and have impressed others he’s competed against over the weekend.
“It’s spectacular. A 16-year-old coming out here, competing like a true competitor, not letting the moment get too big but living in the moment,” said Olympic gold medalist Michael Norman, who has also advanced to the finals.
Wilson, an enthusiastic young athlete, joked about his future plans. “If I make Team USA and qualify in the top three tonight, I don’t know when I’ll be getting my license,” he said.
He is living in the moment and not taking anything for granted. “I’m just running for my life out there,” Wilson told the media. “The race plan went out the window. I have a lot of things I can do to improve myself. I’m in the world’s biggest final coming up. At 16 years old, I’m ecstatic right now. It’s one of the happiest days of my life.”
The 16-year-old sensation will run in the finals tonight on NBC.
