Valerie ‘Val’ Constien is a name to reckon with when it comes to inspirational stories in track and field. In the Tokyo Olympics trials, she entered unsponsored and fresh off an injury. Despite the odds, she promised to make it to the final squad for the Olympics. Now, three years later, she has achieved even more, with just weeks to go for Paris.

This time as well, Val Constien had an injury-filled past and a lack of practice. But when it came to hoisting the flag of the inspirational journey again, the Colorado native outsmarted every barrier. 

Yet another Olympic qualification? Yes, it comes with records

On day seven of the US Olympic Track and Field Trials at Hayward Field, Val Constien secured her qualification for the Paris Olympics in the 3000m steeplechase event. She crossed the finish line in 9:03.22 minutes, achieving two milestones. This timing is her personal best in the event, and it also stands as the top performance in the US Olympic Track and Field Trials for the 3000m steeplechase. All these achievements come after she dealt with complications from an ACL injury in her track routine.

Last year, during her debut in the Doha Diamond League, the 28-year-old faced the crippling effects of an ACL injury, a nightmare for any track and field athlete. The severity of the injury was such that it left her unconscious for several minutes on the track. This unfortunate incident occurred on May 5, just before the major track and field competitions began, severely impacting her chances of achieving significant success. Adding to the setback, Val Constien had earned sponsorship from Nike just a week before the accident—a dream come true for her. However, due to the injury, she had limited opportunities to prove herself in Nike’s apparel. Fortunately, Dr. Matthew Provencher emerged as a blessing in her recovery journey.

The orthopedic surgeon performed a miraculous operation, successfully enabling the then-27-year-old athlete to stand on her feet again. However, after regaining her health in 2023, she was unable to participate in any major track events. She also held little hope for competing in the Paris Olympics. Yet, a steadfast determination drove her to come to Eugene.

Val Constien is looking forward to capitalizing on her willpower

Before riding on the stretcher to experience the operation, Val Constien heard some beautiful lines from Dr. Matthew Provencher. The lines dealt with her obvious wish. The physician knew that and in his pep talk to the athlete, he said, “We’re going to get you back for Paris.” Val still remembers those lines. 

In her post-game conversation, she expressed her wonder about featuring and achieving success in the trials. Furthermore, in expressing her willpower, she claimed, “I think taking that pressure off and just really focusing on trying to be healthy and do everything right was how I got to this point.” In all this duration, she never rushed to gain quick fitness. 

Instead, with timely support from everyone, she reached the pinnacle. Looking forward, Val Constien remains optimistic that her stars will continue to align in her favor. Isn’t this an inspiring story that resonates with everyone eager to learn? The journey will continue to the Paris Olympics as well.