If you want to know what track and field life is like in the fast lane, ask Sprint NOLA Track Club's Aaliyah Lane. The John Curtis sixth-grader hasn't wasted any time in preparing herself for a big 2022 season with some impressive early performances.
It started in December when Lane opened her season with a PR 2:26.13 in 800 meters at The Galleria Games in Birmingham, Alabama.
Lane followed that up the following month with another indoor PR in the 400 meters at the Joe Deloach Youth Invitational, where she ran a 58.91.
Lane, who has won multiple national titles, is no stranger to success, but it was at a national championship where she had her most memorable race. That came in the 400 meters at the Speed Capital Central Meet in Starkville, MS during last years outdoor season.
"I was shocked that I ran that time (59.53)," Lane said. "I got first place and the medal they give out was my favorite medal ever."
Although that race was a personal favorite, her favorite event is the 800 meters.
"The 800 is my favorite event because it's a more challenging race to me," Lane said. "I have been great at it since I was introduced to it. You have to give it everything you've got in those two laps."
Lane has not been alone on her meteoric rise in the sport. She has been blessed with some great coaches, including her first coach, Kris Lewis with SACS Track. Now, Sprint NOLA Track Club coaches Nile Legania Sr. and Brandon Scruggs are helping the youngster continue to improve.
In the off-season, Albert Brock with ABX Performance works with Lane on her strength.
"Coach Kris introduced me to the 800," Lane said. "He will still see me at the track during practice and treats me like family. Coach Nile and Coach Brandon are great coaches on and off the track. It's always fun at practice, even on the hard days."
Lane is on the path to becoming a future star in track and field in the state of Louisiana. Do you know a future star in the sport? Email Jerry Byrd at milesplitlaeditor@gmail.com a picture of the athlete and tell us why Milesplit LA should feature this young athlete. You can follow on social media using the #milesplitlafuturestarfriday on Milesplit LA on all social media platforms.
