Posts tagged "NCAT"

Meet Kayla White!

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Feature, Latest | by — May 9, 2019

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Intense ambition, undeniable speed + pure focus, has North Carolina A&T State University’s track star, Kayla White turning heads with a solid smile all season long! 

Hailing from Miami, the dynamic Aggie broke the world record for the fastest indoor 200m at the prestigious Tyson Invitational this year. She then went on to set a MEAC Championship record by winning the 100m with a time of 10.96 seconds + won the 200m at 22.52 seconds, the fastest in the nation this year!

“If you love what you do, if you’re passionate about doing it, no one can take that from you,” Kayla states while conquering this season!

Let’s get to know Kayla a little better…

Hailing from Miami, when did you first take an interest in track + field and what made you want to take it seriously?

 When I first took an interest in track and field, I decided I didn’t like it after two days of practice. I eventually picked it back up in high school in my junior year and that’s when I started to take it serious. When I realize I’m good at something I make sure to commit to it.  I realized my potential and knew I had to lean into my natural talent.

Clocking the world’s fastest time in the 200 M dash is simply A-MAZ-ING! How did you feel once you finished the race + what was your reaction when you realized your time?

 Finishing that race with a PR I was pretty happy! I walked off the track, went to get dressed and cool down, when my coaches ran up to me. They gave me a huge hug of congratulations. I didn’t know it was a world lead until they told me and that’s  when all of my social media started to blow up. It truly was an amazing feeling and it still doesn’t feel real!

Being a proud Aggie at North Carolina A+T, how has the support of your team, school + coach motivated you to step into your potential?

 The support of my team, school, coaches and alumni has been there since my freshman year. Being on a team where everyone has one common goal which is to win has definitely helped me step into my potential as an athlete and as a role model. Without them pushing me on and off the track I wouldn’t be the athlete that I am today.

Track + field is such a mental sport, how do you mentally prep before a race? Best piece of advice from your coach?

 The way I mentally prepare for a meet is that I put my phone on DND and try to block out any distractions. I listen to my ‘Meet Day’ playlist from the moment I wake up until after I run. The best piece of advice that my coach has given me is to always have fun whenever you step on the track.

Being young, juggling responsibilities while walking towards your dreams can sometimes get to be a bit overwhelming, how do you regroup and motivate yourself when you’re feeling a little defeated?

 Whenever I start to feel overwhelmed or a little stressed I like to take mental days for myself. So I’ll probably take myself to the movies or to dinner, or get my nails done. 

We are all about empowerment, what does EMPOWERMENT mean to you?

What empowerment means to me is uplifting and supporting everyone around you.

What advice would you give girls who want to follow their dreams and passions but are nervous or intimidated?

 The advice I would give them is if you love what you do, if you’re passionate about doing it, no one can take that from you! So embrace your talents and have fun!

Follow more of Kayla here! Instagram