The world of track and field is unforgiving. Not only does the sport demand the athletes to be at the top of their form consistently, but stars also have to adhere to strict regulations in order to compete. Under such circumstances, any fumble can prove to be costly. And that’s exactly what happened to an American record holder. But it seems that she has outrun all the pain, and fans cannot wait to see her back on the track.

In January 2021, an email notified Shelby Houlihan that her urine sample showed traces of nandrolone, a banned anabolic steroid. The ex-Sun Devils star tried to explain that it could have entered her system through a pork burrito she had eaten. Her justification, however, was not deemed satisfactory. Now, as the sentence has come to an end, the track and field star’s followers have voiced their excitement.

Arizona State alum shares happiness at crossing the troubled waters

On January 13, Shelby took to Instagram to recall how painful the whole ordeal had been. “I had been banned for 4 years. Nothing made sense and I felt incredibly lost. When I thought about the future, it all seemed so dark and I couldn’t see a way through it,” she wrote, revealing how it felt like without being able to run, it almost seemed like her life was over. The Sun Devils program record holder elaborated, “That might seem a bit dramatic but in reality, running had been my entire life and my whole identity,” underscoring how everything came crashing down when she lost what she held dearest.

Thankfully, that is behind the 31-year-old track and field athlete now. “I made it. I feel relief, happiness, and pride for getting through it, but I also still feel incredibly angry and sad that I had to. I still have no real answers for what happened 4 years ago,” Houlihan struggled to hide her frustration about the experience she had to go through. She feels that there are inconsistencies in the anti-doping governing bodies, inconsistencies that can make athletes suffer.

Nevertheless, the tumultuous times gave Shelby a new perspective on life altogether. “The last 4 years have been filled with growth, love, fun, and discovering who I am without this,” she said, mentioning that she has never been more confident and happy in her life than she is now. But in her social media update, she didn’t forget the fans who stood by her side during all this time, “You all have helped me more than you know,” she admitted. The wholesome post was like a breath of fresh air, and the community members could hardly hold back their joyous messages.

Track and field fans wish Houlihan good luck

While Shelby’s age might not be on her side, fans still believe better days are ahead. One such fan believes that the 1500m and 5000m records could be for the taking once again if Houlihan puts her mind to it. “So excited to see you back out there!!” wrote the fan, highlighting how inspiring the track and field star’s journey has been to watch. Thanks to the ban she was handed, the athlete missed out on the chance to represent the USA at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but this fan thinks all isn’t lost still. “Cant wait to watch you race again,” said another fan, mirroring the sentiment.

Doping has been an issue that has caused havoc to the track and field community for decades. When Kenya’s long-distance runner Emmaculate Anyango was banned last year after testing positive for Testosterone and Erythropoietin (EPO), fans were fuming. However, fans think Shelby’s case was different, and they made sure to note that. “A traumatic event brought that to you. Now it’s time to fly,” reads one such supportive fan’s comment.

“Proud of you for the journey you’ve taken these years,” said another fan with a supportive hand on Shelby’s back. Another fan announced with gusto and without deliberation, “In your corner!!” Heartening to see such camaraderie, isn’t it? Do you also have any messages for the veteran runner? Share yours in a comment below!