The Olympics are six months away, which means you should start prepping now to experience the world’s greatest athletes crush records and compete at the highest level – ever. To help you get into the Olympic spirit, Allyson Felix, a nine-time Olympic medalist, did an Ask Me Anything on Reddit, speaking about everything from her favorite dessert to her most special medal. Check out our favorite questions and answers from the track queen ahead.
1. What got you into track and field?
“My parents urged me to try out for the track and field team to make friends at my new school. My big brother also ran track, so I was excited to get into the sport as well.”
2. What are you most looking forward to in Tokyo?
“I love to see how different cities put on the games, each one has been so unique. I also hope to keep seeing women crush it in the games like they did at Rio – that was awesome.”
3. What do you think needs to be done for women’s sports to become more popular?
“More women as decision makers. We need women to voice what women need and how we can best be supported – not just men.”
4. What sport would you like your daughter to play when she’s older?
“I want to give Camryn the opportunity to try whatever sport she seems to be interested in. I have always wanted to be a gymnast myself and [I] have been so impressed by the sport, so I might suggest that as an option to her.”
5. Do you ever walk around the house wearing all of your medals at the same time?
“Haha – no, they are much heavier than they look!”
6. What is your go-to “get hyped” song(s) before you compete?
“Lizzo, Beyoncé, and JAY-Z get me hyped!”
7. Besides track, are there other events you enjoy watching? How do you celebrate after a successful event?
“I am fascinated with gymnastics. And [I] love to watch basketball! I celebrate with my loved ones and a yummy steak – oh, and ice cream.”
8. Do you think you’ll be in the Olympics in 2024 and 2028?
“I do not think so! I am so, so excited to have the Olympic Games back in Los Angeles, my hometown, in 2028. [I] cannot wait to bring my daughter and have those memories with her.”
9. Which medal meant the most to you personally?
“2012 gold in the 200m for sure!”
10. What do you consider to be your greatest achievement/accomplishment as an athlete thus far in your life up until now?
“I would say my proudest moments happened in 2018 – the birth of my daughter and using my voice in support of women everywhere.”
11. If you had the choice to leave behind one piece of advice for humanity, what would it be and why?
“Everyone has their own story, their own journey, their own battles – be kind.”
