MKRob Sports

Allyson is a track and field athlete who competes internationally for the United States, primarily in the 200 meters . She is a two-time Olympic silver medalist and a two-time Athletics World Championship gold medalist in that event. She is also an Olympic gold medalist, winning gold at the Beijing 2008 Olympics as a member of the United States’ Women’s 4×400 relay team.

MKRob: When did you start running track competitively?

Allyson: My freshmen year of high school.  I came out for the track team to meet new people because I was at a new school.  After my first year running I completely fell in love with the sport.

MKRob: What other sports do you enjoy or like to watch?

Allyson: I really enjoy watching basketball and football.  I’m just a big sports fan.  I really admire athletes and their work ethic.

MKRob: If any, who are or were your favorite players and teams past and present?

Allyson: I’m a huge USC fan and love watching our football team.  I also enjoy watching the Lakers.

MKRob: What are three songs in your Ipod/mp3 player that are from different genres of music?

Allyson: Diva- Beyonce, I won’t complain- Fred Hammond and No Ordinary Love- Sade

MKRob: Who or what is your inspiration?

Allyson: I find inspiration from a number of different places.  Most importantly my faith in God inspires me, I feel my talent is completely from God so I want to use it to the best of my ability.

MKRob: What is your favorite kind of music?

Allyson: I really enjoy R&B/soul and Gospel.

MKRob: What do you do to stay in shape and what do you eat?

Allyson: I train about 5 to 6 days a week.  I do all different types of sprints and longer runs on the track.  I spend 4 days a week in the weight room and 2 days a week doing Pilates.  My goal is to eat very healthy foods that are high in protein.

MKRob: How does it feel to be considered by some as a sex symbol?

Allyson: I think that’s the first time I’ve ever heard of it, so if I am I’m really not aware of it and it just sounds kind of funny to me.

MKRob: How is it training with Bob Kersee?

Allyson: I really enjoy it.  He is an extremely demanding coach but I love how he can get the most out of me.  I feel like he is very knowledgeable and has a ton of experience that I really value.

MKRob: How did it feel to win a Gold medal in Beijing?

Allyson: It was amazing.  I work extremely hard and it’s always great to see it pay off.  I just really enjoyed the experience.  The people in the crowd were wonderful and it was just a very special moment.

MKRob: What are your plans for the 2012 Olympics?

Allyson: I would love to win a gold medal in the 200m.  But I’m really just taking things year by year; continuing to work hard and see what God has in store for me.

MKRob: What advice do you have for girls that have dreams of running track in the Olympics?

Allyson: I would tell them to keep their priorities straight.  I would encourage them to enjoy what their doing and to always have fun with it.

MKRob: What are your plans after your track career is over?

Allyson: I graduated from USC with a degree in elementary education and when I finish running I would love to get in the classroom and teach 4th or 5th grade.

MKRob: What’s the first thing that comes to mind when I say:

Allyson:

Speed:  Cheetahs

Sexy:  Being completely natural

Funny:  Katt Williams

Genious: Einstein

Allyson’s Favorites

Book:  The Bible

Movie:  Coming to America

Food:  Ice Cream

Color:  Blue