Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone’s journey to Olympic glory in Tokyo was nothing short of extraordinary. Competing in her second Olympics after Rio, she entered the 2021 Games with a clear mission: to prove herself on the world’s biggest stage.
After breaking the world record at the Olympic trials with a time of 51.90 seconds, McLaughlin-Levrone emerged as a favorite in the 400-meter hurdles.
She lived up to those expectations, shattering her own record with a stunning 51.46-second performance to secure her first Olympic gold medal.
But behind the scenes, McLaughlin-Levrone was grappling with challenges that few could see. In her book, Far Beyond Gold: Running from Fear to Faith, she revealed her inner turmoil during the Games.
Facing Loneliness in Tokyo
For McLaughlin-Levrone, Tokyo was a stark contrast to her Rio experience, where her family provided emotional support. Due to strict COVID-19 regulations, her loved ones couldn’t join her in Japan.
Adding to her distress was the absence of her coach, Bob Kersee, whose delayed passport renewal left him unable to travel with her initially.
“I had to constantly remind myself that even though my family and possibly my coach couldn’t come with me, I wouldn’t be alone in Tokyo. The same God who had carried me around the track in Eugene would be with me every step of the way,” she wrote, describing how her faith became a vital source of strength.
McLaughlin-Levrone relied on prayer to navigate the emotional weight of competing without her usual support system. Her resilience shone through as she won her first heat, building confidence for the races ahead.
A Reunited Team and a Moment of Clarity
When Kersee finally arrived in Tokyo, the hurdler’s spirits lifted.
His presence allowed her to refocus and channel her energy toward achieving her goals.
Known for his unconventional coaching methods, Kersee’s approach had been pivotal in McLaughlin-Levrone’s preparation.
Recalling his peculiar training style, she wrote, “He’d give me commands like, ‘Stand up. Wait a minute. Go run a lap,’ without explaining the reasoning.
At the time, I thought, ‘What is he doing?’” These exercises, though baffling, were part of Kersee’s strategy to help her thrive under chaotic conditions—a skill that proved invaluable on the Olympic stage.
Evidence of Perseverance
McLaughlin-Levrone’s Tokyo journey highlighted the importance of mental resilience, faith, and the right mentorship. Her gold medal was not only a testament to her athletic prowess but also a reflection of her ability to overcome adversity.
As she continues to inspire with her story, McLaughlin-Levrone remains a symbol of determination, proving that even in the face of isolation and uncertainty, greatness is possible.
