Nov. 17, 2016

When I first got my bag of gear to represent Guyana, I just looked in the mirror and said ‘it’s definitely time.’

Aliyah Abrams

Going to the Olympics was one of the best experiences of my track career. The best part was being in the stadium when South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk broke the 400 meter record. That was probably the best race I’ve ever seen.

I met (Jamaican sprinter/Olympic champion) Usain Bolt. I was really excited. I also met (Grenadian sprinter) Kirani James. He is one of my favorites.

When I first got my bag of gear to represent Guyana, I just looked in the mirror and said ‘it’s definitely time.’ The best advice I received came before the Olympics when I was training back at home with my training partner, (Bahamian sprinter) Chris Brown. He told me to humble myself and trust in God, and you will see the results that you want. That’s what I did.

Being at South Carolina definitely helped me with my Olympic experience. Coach (Curtis) Frye has sent a lot of athletes to the Olympics, so being coached by him gives you some insight into what it’s like and how you need to run your race.

When it was time for my event, I was calm. I tried not to get too worked up about being up on such a large stage. I was just making sure I was mentally prepared for my race. The nerves weren’t too bad. I was more nervous running at the NCAAs.

I was focused on my race and well-prepared for it. During a race, I think about what I have to do at a certain mark. To start, I just think about getting out of the blocks. When I go around the backstretch, I’m just thinking, ‘relax my shoulders’ and ‘work my arms.’ You just talk to yourself and tell yourself what to do.

When it was over, I looked for my time and it said 52.7. I thought, ‘not bad.’ I started my season running 53s. Even though I didn’t medal, I still enjoyed the experience. I definitely have bigger hopes and plans for the next one.

If I am fortunate enough to go back to the Olympics, I am definitely planning on making it out of the first and second rounds. I will be stronger. I will be faster, and I will be more confident in my ability in four years.

Now that I am back at South Carolina, I am looking forward to the upcoming season. I have a lot I want to accomplish here.