MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) - In the Palmetto State, few would dispute the fact that when it comes to sports football is king. But one local athlete is on a mission to turn Myrtle Beach into "Track Town U.S.A."
"Nobody really runs track, it's about football and basketball, so hopefully I can get people to come out and show that Myrtle Beach has speed too."
It's a lofty dream for Myrtle Beach High School graduate Qwontajah Thompson, but one she is helping to make a reality.
"Every time I cross the finish line it's like an accomplishment or like I succeed at something, so it basically symbolizes life and success to me," said Thompson.
She has helped to put Grand Strand runners on the national scene after finishing seventh in the U.S. Youth Track and Field Championships.
"Personally I feel like I have talent, so running with the best makes you the best," said Thompson.
Qwontajah won't have to travel far to continue her career in college. She will run for Coastal Carolina in the fall, a commitment CCU Head Coach Alan Connie says was huge for the Chants.
"Our sprint coach, Coach Shumpert, is real excited to get started with her in September, and it's a really good thing. She was recruited by many schools, so we're really glad she stayed home," said Connie.
As Thompson looks to follow in the footsteps of great CCU track athletes like amber Campbell, her goal is to help turn the chants into a national power.
"A lot of the colleges, if you name the top five CCU might not be in there, so I just want to make sure it's number one. Although it may be a big step I still think that Coastal can be up there," said Thompson.
Qwontajah has been training all summer for once she gets to Coastal, and left for Georgia on Thursday to compete in another regional meet.
All content © Copyright 2000 - 2012 WorldNow and WMBF, a Raycom Media Station.
