Freshman Isaac Richardson passes his competition in the 400 meter dash. Isaac ran in lane 2, finishing with a time of 51.76.

What began as a simple dream for freshman Isaac Richardson soon became a reality: to be a national champion.

Isaac started track in seventh grade and quickly fell in love with the sport after making the middle school team. He became one of the top runners on the team, but never imagined a championship. 

In eighth grade, Isaac attended New Balance Nationals for the first time, one of the largest track meets in the country. He faced tough competition and did not place well. However, he remained undeterred and set two personal goals: to qualify again in high school and become one of the best runners in the nation. 

In order to reach his goal, he attended every optional workout and asked his coach to train him more to become one of the best. He trained through pain and doubt with harder workouts and was eventually invited to the New Balance Nationals for a second time. 

Issac succeeded in his goal—returning to New Balance Nationals March 13 to March 16, 2025, but this time as a freshman on the OL track team.

He placed 10th overall in the nation for the 400-meter dash with a time of 51.76 and 15th in the 800-meter run with a time of 2:02.35. 

¨I was told many times I couldn’t make it throughout my life, but I achieved my goal of proving them wrong.¨ Isaac said.