Allyson Felix

Bio:
Allyson Felix (born November 18, 1985 in Los Angeles, California) is an American track and field sprinter. She was nicknamed “Chicken Legs” in high school because of her skinny legs, but by the end of high school she was the fastest runner in history of girls high school sprinters. She went on to attend University of Southern California, which was paid for by her sponsor, adidas. By having a sponsor, however, she forewent her college eligibility. At just 18, she finished as a silver medalist in the 200 m at the 2004 Summer Olympics. In doing so, she set a World Junior record for her time. In 2005, Allyson became the youngest-ever gold medalist sprinter in the 200 m at the World Championships. At the 2008 Olympics, Allyson received the silver medal in the 200 m sprint, but won her first gold medal in the 4 x 100 m relay. In 2009, she claimed her third 200 m World Championship gold medal. In 2012, Allyson ran the 100 m, 200 m, 4 x 100 m relay and 4 x 400 m relay. She won gold in all but the 100 m, where she still ran her personal best. Allyson attended the 2016 Olympic trials with an injured ankle, but still managed to qualify for the 400 m sprint, 4×100 m relay and 4×400 m relay. She earned 2 gold medals in the 4×100 relay and 4×400 relay, and a silver in the 400 m.

Best Known For:
Allyson Felix is best known for her incredible, record-breaking track and field career.

Personal Life:
Allyson’s older brother, Wes Felix is also a a sprinter. She describes her ability as a “gift from God,” saying “my faith is the reason I run.” In 2014, she traveled to Brazil as a SportsUnited Sports Envoy for the US Department of State, where she worked with Josh George to conduct clinics and events for more than 500 children who had disabilities or came from under-supported communities.