Track is literally just around the corner and will start up in just over a month. Over that time we are going to countdown 10 of the biggest stars returning this season. This list does not include XC athletes and only includes athletes who are track specific athletes.
Counting Down The Top 10 Track Stars
#6 Edward Richardson III
Last year we saw some of the best runners in the entire nation take to the track in Virginia. You had the likes of Noah Lyles, Grant Holloway, and Josephus Lyles to name a few. Though they are great in their own right, they are not the greatest ever in the 500 like Edward Richardson the third is.
At the 5A State indoor meet last year at Boo Williams, Edward made history in the 500. Watch his race below.
In his first ever state championship final, as a freshman, Edward took to the track in the final section of the 5A 500. He opened slow compared to his competitors with a 13.23 opening 100. He came back the second 100 in a decent 12.15 to put himself in a much better position. He continued that trend the next 100 going thru in 12.95 for a 300 time of 38.33 without blocks.
The next 200m though was the most impressive. Despite it being where athletes usually break down and fade, this was where Edward got stronger. He came thru the next 100 in 13.66, his slowest 100 but also this is where he overtook the lead. He then powered home in 13.6 to bring home the state championship, 10 points to Bethel, and a freshman national record with his 1:05.72 clocking.
He went on to help win Bethel the team title both indoors and outdoors. He also ran on the 4x400 and helped seal the deal as the anchor.
Outdoors was just as impressive with him ultimately running 48.69 for the 400 to win the outdoor state title in that event.
This year should be a huge one for him. If he was able to put on some muscle and build up his strength during the offseason then he could be scary good this season. As in sub 1:04 good. Be ready for a big show from this Bethel sophomore.
