Watch: Sha’Carri Richardson Gratefully Accepts USATF Female Athlete of the Year Reflecting on Growth and Resilience

Sha’Carri Richardson absolutely owned the 2023 sprinting season and now she has the official receipt to show for it. After reigning over the track in both home and international competitions, the sprinting sensation traveled to Orlando for the official coronation ceremony. Nevertheless, even as she took the throne, Richardson bestowed a humble acknowledgment for her peers. 

Sha’Carri Richardson produced a series of terrific performances upon her return to track and field in 2023. Recently, the USATF honored her with the prestigious USA Track and Field Athlete of the Year award. In an inspiring acceptance speech, Sha’Carri Richardson bared her soul to showcase the depth of her beautiful humanity. 

Sha’Carri Richardson’s powerful message on the stage

The USATF Night of Legends on December 2 was elevated even further when Sha’Carri Richardson took the stage. Popular blogger Track Spice caught hold of a video of her accepting the award and subsequently delivering a beautiful speech. He shared the video of the speech on his X account with the accompanying post, “Sha’carri Richardson’s speech after getting her two awards”. When she first started her speech, the Dallas-born set the record with the correct pronunciation of her name. Thereafter, she delivered a speech about inclusivity, saying she represents all aspects of her community on the track.

She restated her conviction to take her place among the stalwarts of the track community, saying, “Sha’Carri represent fully from my mental, my emotional, my spiritual and my physical. I’m not back, I’m better”. Sha’Carri Richardson climbed up the stage once again to receive another award. This time, she thanked the track community for their love and support. Now that she has overcome the tribulations in her early professional life, Richardson acknowledged her important role as an idol. 

Sha’Carri Richardson acknowledges her impact

Sha’Carri Richardson’s suspension for marijuana consumption took a toll on her performance in the 2021 season. She thanked God for instilling her with patience to overcome those odds. Richardson said, “When I was 20 and went through a very traumatic time in my life, you know, and I think it’s not my favorite because my God has shown what gives…That patience, I think”. 

Read More: Sha’Carri Richardson Shuts Down Salty Rivalry With Jamaican Sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser Pryce With a Heartwarming Gesture

Finally, as the Female Athlete of the Year, Sha’Carri Richardson has acquired the respect of the track community. She said, “I understand the influence that I have” and she will use it to make a positive impact on the sport. 

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