Crimson Tide on the Track: UA's Para Track and Field Program is Gaining Speed!
The University of Alabama's Sam Bailey Track and Field Stadium isn't just home to your average student-athlete. It's where champions are made, and UA's Adapted Athletics program is carving out its own legendary legacy in para track and field!
Joining a Growing Movement
UA is part of a select group – one of only nine schools nationwide – blazing the trail for collegiate para track and field. They're in good company with programs at Arizona, Illinois, Michigan, and San Diego State. Head Coach Evan Williams notes a surge in new programs, proving this sport is on the rise!
From Four to Eight: Growth Spurt!
In just its second season, the program has doubled in size, going from four to eight incredible athletes! And this year, they're hosting their very first meet!
Meet the Team!
This year's roster boasts a diverse team of talent: Alex Brown (wheelchair racer), Dani Kanas (thrower), Zachary Carter (wheelchair racer & thrower), Carson Fox (sprinter & thrower), Eric Francis (thrower), Spencer Kimbro (wheelchair racer), Talan Smith (sprinter), and Parthasarathi Venkatram (wheelchair racer). They are guided by Coach Williams, Throwers Coach Nadia Jones, and Sprinters Coach Jimmy Dickson.
Same Events, Different Style
These athletes compete in the same events you'd see at any track meet – sprints, middle distances, throws, and jumps. The difference? Specialized equipment and a unique classification system based on each athlete's disability and function. It’s about fair competition within those classifications.
Paving the Way
These athletes are determined to showcase their abilities and inspire others. Team member Dani Kanas is excited to build the program and contribute to the growth of para track and field at the collegiate level. Eric Francis, also on the wheelchair basketball team, sees track as another amazing opportunity. Freshman Alex Brown feels honored to be a pioneer, aiming to make every performance worthy of wearing the "Script A."
Coaching with Passion
Coach Nadia Jones, a physical therapist and former track athlete, sees incredible potential within the program. She emphasizes the student-athletes' hard work, determination, and resilience, adding that she feels blessed to be part of the program.
A Welcoming Community
What sets UA's program apart? It attracts dedicated coaches and passionate athletes. Many athletes learned about the program and were welcomed as freshmen. Talan Smith, who competed in track in high school, has been instrumental in growing the sport.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
While track and field can seem individual, this squad operates as a tight-knit team. Alex Brown highlights the team's bond, going from strangers to a supportive unit. The goal? To serve as an example for collegiate para track and field programs nationwide.
Aiming High
The coaching staff hopes to propel their athletes to even greater heights, with Kanas, Kimbro, and Smith all eyeing Paralympic qualification. They’ve even partnered with the UA College of Engineering to create custom training equipment, like accessible pull-up bars and a portable shotput ring.
A Bright Future
Coach Williams emphasizes the importance of intercollegiate competition and hopes to establish a governing body to further develop the sport at the college level.
The Push for More Opportunities
The team is working to encourage other colleges to host para track events, with even more already in the works this year! Keep an eye on this team – they are making waves!
