Day 2 of SEC track championships held at UK draws crowd
LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — Rain caused the SEC championships to start sooner than scheduled on Friday, while there was still lots of sunshine.
Supporters chanted for athletes as their teams looked to take home some SEC hardware.
During every race, sounds of motivation could be heard from people such as Crystal Johnson, who traveled from Durham, North Carolina, to support her baby girl.
'I am so proud of you, Alysia. You did this, you stayed focused, you kept God-focused, and the sky is the limit,' Crystal said.
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Alysia Johnson ran her way into the 400 meter finals Saturday, with her crew giving her some extra fuel to help her get there.
'When I was at that starting line, I heard their big mouth, and it was just a blessing to have my village here, knowing that I'm not alone and that I can go out here and just leave it on the track,' Alysia said.
A father of a Vanderbilt runner watched her kick her way to the 1500 meter showdown.
'As a parent, you well up with pride, watching her achieve everything she has,' Andrew Rosenberg said. 'Just do your best; we're always going to root for you no matter where you land, and if you score in the SEC, that's a bonus.'
Although most people were drawn to see the athletes, one woman came with a different goal in mind.
'I actually came to come get my book signed by Coach Holloway [University of Florida head track coach]. He is probably the winningest coach right now in track,' Terri Bryant said.
Read more of the latest UK sports news
Although Bryant bleeds blue, with her son Ty Bryant being the starting safety on UK's football team, she said there is always room to uplift others.
'Just pursue your dreams, continue to strive for whatever it is that you want to; the sky's the limit for anybody that wants to pursue their dreams,' Bryant said.
Just like many athletes, Bryant took home a prize of her own, getting the book autographed. She said she was able to interview Holloway on her Hits & Heels podcast, making the moment full circle.
'It was just great to be able to finally just to meet him in person, just so thankful for him,' Bryant continued, 'it was everything I expected.'
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Athletes encourage folks to come on out for the final meet day, Saturday, as champions will be crowned and trips to the NCAA Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Eugene, Oregon, are in view for many.
To view the SEC schedule, click here.
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