ATLANTA — On Saturday, at an Atlanta high school, a sense of anticipation was felt as the city's own Christian Coleman, world champion, world record holder and Olympian, hosted an invitational event for students.
It happened at Westlake High School on March 16, just months away from the Summer Paris Olympic Games. Coleman reflected on his Atlanta upbringing and expressed gratitude for the unwavering support he's received from his community.
"I love Atlanta so much," he said. "Atlanta made me exactly who I am today."
From his early days running at Sandtown Park to his high school years at Westlake and Our Lady of Mercy Catholic High School, Coleman's journey embodies the essence of Atlanta.
"I feel like you don't get any more Atlanta than me and my family," Coleman said. "I just appreciate the love, support and camaraderie."
For Coleman, representing Atlanta isn't just about his athletic skill; it's about carrying the spirit of his city wherever he goes, on and off the track.
As the conversation shifted to his athletic career, Coleman reflected on his debut at the Rio Olympics in 2016, recalling the overwhelming experience of competing at the highest level at just 20 years old.
"It was like a whirlwind of emotions," he said, adding later, "I think it really sparked something in me and gave me the actual vision of what was possible for me in the future."
Fast-forward to the present and Coleman is one of the world's fastest sprinters, with accolades including world championship titles and world records. Yet, his sights are firmly set on Paris, where he aims to capture Olympic gold.
"The preparation started a long time ago," Coleman said. "Not trying to put any more pressure on it. Just go out and do what I know I can do."
Coleman's dedication to his craft extends beyond physical training; he emphasizes the importance of visualization in achieving success.
"Visualization for me is the biggest key factor in me successful," Coleman said. "Because if you can see, I feel like you just have it better, like you're able to achieve it."
With Paris on the horizon, Coleman visualizes himself at the start line, feeling the track beneath his feet and anticipating the race ahead.
When asked about his message to fans in Atlanta and beyond, Coleman's response was this:
"Represent Atlanta at the highest level," he declared. "Anywhere I go in the world, I'm trying to represent at the highest level."
As he prepares to embark on his Olympic journey, Coleman carries the hopes and dreams of Atlanta's proud community with him. He is driven by a sense of duty to inspire the next generation of athletes.