Zeph McLennan, a rising junior on Samford’s Track and Field team, got a taste of the Olympic life this summer when he made it to the trials to compete in the 800M.
Unlike most Olympic athletes, McLennan had a unique start to his track and field career. Track wasn’t a sport he’d grown up competing in his whole life. It wasn’t until his senior year of high school that McLennan began exploring the world of track and field. However, his delayed start to the game didn’t discourage his dreams or prolong his aspirations; McLennan wanted to go to the Olympics.
“That was my goal when I started track,” said McLennan.
McLennan defined his journey to the Olympic trials by two traits: consistency and discipline. When the season ended for the rest of his teammates, McLennan didn’t stop.
“I didn’t change anything up… I just kept practicing and moving forward,” said McLennan.
He knew there was great work to be done, and that growth came with consistency. McLennan said that getting the right amount of sleep and training was vital to his performance. Balancing practices, diet and rest was where discipline was factored in.
Upon arriving at the Olympic stage, McLennan was awestruck and inspired by the people around him.
“There are thousands of people, and you step out on the track against the best people in the country,” said McLennan.
He said it was an incredible feeling being able to compete side by side with those who had traveled across the country, as well as those who had competed against Olympic record-holders.
With such little experience behind him, McLennan’s presence at the trials was a great achievement in and of itself. McLennan credited this moment and all his success to his faith. He said that his relationship with Christ is what kept him focused on where he wanted to be and kept his mind set on his goal.
“It took a lot of prayer,” he said.
McLennan couldn’t stress enough that he wouldn’t be where he is now without the Lord. He summed his life up with three things: family, friends, and Christ.
“The people who God put in my life, they’re the ones who made me who I am,” said McLennan.
After just getting his feet wet in the competition, he’s already hungry for more. Zeph is now more motivated than ever to get back to the Olympics and compete.
“I want to be there so bad. I know I can make it next time,” said McLennan.
Follow Zeph’s journey this year as he continues to compete on the track for the Samford Bulldogs.
