Quincy Wilson is running circles around history. At just 16, he’s become a record-breaking phenomenon, making waves in the track world as the youngest Olympic gold medalist for Team USA’s men’s team. Leading off the 4×400 relay in Paris, Quincy took the bull by the horns, and by late July, he’d capped his season with an astonishing 44.20 finish in the 400 meters. In doing so, he managed to maintain Team USA’s 12-year winning streak in the 4×400 meter relay event.

During the U.S. Olympic Trials, he broke the world U18 record three times. First, with a 44.66, followed by a 44.59, and finishing strong with a 44.94 to secure place in the race. This athlete’s determination has definitely put him in the spotlight. It seems like he’s just getting started!

Quincy not only set records but also received the prestigious USATF Youth Athlete of the Year award for his exceptional performance this summer, where he pushed himself to the limit in every race he ran.

Receiving an accolade from USATF is quite significant, as it indicates that the athlete has excelled in their field and earned recognition from the governing body of track and field in the United States. The USATF Youth Athlete Award is bestowed upon promising athletes who display talent and promise. Being acknowledged by USATF can lead to various opportunities, such as scholarships or invitations to participate in larger sporting events. However, Gabby Thomas was also honored with the 2024 Jackie Joyner Kersee Athlete of the Year Award for her performances at the Olympics in the 200-meter race and relay events.

In 2024, Grant Holloway was awarded the Jesse Owens Athlete of the Year Award following his gold medal win in the 110-meter hurdles at the Olympics. Joanna Hayes received recognition as the USATF Nike Coach of the Year for guiding Rai Benjamin to gold in the 400-meter hurdles. Nora Cary and Neringa Jakstiene were both commended as USATF Masters Athletes of the Year for their performances in distance running and track events. Dwight Phillips is set to receive the 2024 USATF Legacy Award in recognition of his career, in long jump. These awards truly showcase athletes who have had an influence on the sport!

It is interesting to point out that Noah Lyles was not included in this list even though he won gold in the 100 meters at the Paris Olympics. However, with Quincy Wilson being honored with this award, a significant portion of the recognition should be attributed to Noah Lyles, who played a role as a mentor, supportively guiding him along his path.

The impact of Noah Lyles’ mentorship on Quincy Wilson’s career

Noah Lyles has been an influential figure in Wilson’s journey since the young sprinter turned professional, offering both guidance and inspiration. Wilson opened up about the value of Lyles’ mentorship, explaining, “Noah Lyles has always been someone that I have talked to. Even as a mentor, I talk to Noah Lyles, and both our moms talk to each other weekly. Just seeing another guy succeed after sticking to his word means a lot, and you can achieve it if you really put your mind to it.” For Wilson, Lyles’ presence is an anchor, providing motivation and a firsthand example of what’s possible with dedication.

Reflecting on his Olympic debut, Wilson recalled the supportive atmosphere within Team USA and the excitement of meeting his lifelong idol, LeBron James. “Being able to stand with the team and being in the Olympic village… that is my guy and my GOAT,” Wilson shared. “I will forever stand by that; LeBron is the GOAT.” As Wilson looks to the future, he’s focused on staying healthy, knowing that a steady path will open endless possibilities. “For me, I want to stay healthy because if I do that, I know the sky is the limit,” he said. With Lyles’ mentorship, family support, and a strong work ethic, Quincy Wilson is set on a path to make his own mark in the world of sprinting.