Keeping Up With Keylan Jackson

First of all, how did you first start doing track? 

My brother was running and when I was young I wanted to do everything he did, so my parents signed me up I was 6. 

What are all your personal records? 
100m 10.9 
200m 22.06 
400m 48.55 

Do you do, or have you done, any other sports? 
I play football & basketball.

What is your favorite or most memorable competition you've ever been in? 
The 2007 Jr. Olympics in Iowa where I got my first national medal in the 400m.

It sounds like you've been doing track a lot longer than most high school athletes. When did you first realize you had a knack or talent for sprinting? Or did you just always know you were really fast?

I never thought I was that fast. I just kept working at it. 

Who are some of the people that have been most helpful to you as a track athlete? 
My brother, dad and mom and my coaches. 

Who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against? 
Tyrese Cooper from Miami, FL. He brings out the best in me. 

Have you ever done (or considered doing) any field events, like long jump or triple jump?

I was never interested in jumping, but I did try in jr. high. I did try shot put once in high school and really didn't like that either. 

What are your main goals for this upcoming season? 
Stay healthy and win State.

Do you have any hopes or aspirations to break the state record of 47.18 in the 400 meters?

Yes, it would be nice to go down in the record books. 


(Photo provided by Keylan Jackson)

Do you have any college plans? 
Not yet. I'm still weighing my options.

What things are you looking for in a potential college (like a specific major, location, size, scholarships, etc)?

Going to a school that gives me money for my education is always a bonus. 

Do you have any rituals, routines, or superstitions either on or off the track? 
Before each race I point to my fans in heaven cheering me on. 

When not training or running blazing times on the track, what might we find you doing? 
Because I go from one season to the next I don't have that much free time, so I guess spending time with family. 

Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself. 
I love classic cars. 

What is your favorite car?

1983 Buick Park Ave.