Beth-el Algarin - World Record Extraordinaire


(Photo provided by Beth-el Algarin)

First of all, how did you first get involved with track & field?

I got involved with track and field when I was about 8. I had already been competing in powerlifting, and track was a way to keep me in shape/in my weight class. I started out as a mid-distance runner and then moved to distance. I also threw, but it wasn't my main event. Now that I'm older I only throw, although I'll run for fun sometimes.

What are all your personal records?

Shot put 42' 6". Discus 117' 9". I would tell you my times for the 400, 800, and mile but they're really old.

Do you do, or have you done, any other sports?

I do weightlifting and powerlifting.

What is your favorite or most memorable competition you've ever been in?

My favorite competition was the 2015 world powerlifting championships held at Virginia Beach. At this competition I broke two world records, won two world championships, and won the women's open best lifter award. It was my favorite competition because I got to compete against women from 35 different countries, and I got a really cool world championship ring.

Other than your own teammates, who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against?

I love competing against Alexandrea Hurst. She's such a fun person and we've got to see each other improve over the years.

Who are some people that have been most helpful to you in your athletic career?

My parents have been the most helpful to me. My mom is always there to encourage me and cheer me on, and my dad is always there to coach me and make sure I get everything I need to do my best.

(Photo provided by Beth-el Algarin)

With all those world records in lifting, might an Olympic gold medal be possible? If so, when might that be, and what will it take for you to get there?

I think it could be possible. I know it will take a lot of training to make my technique perfect and get strong enough. I'm not sure if I'll try in 2020 since I'll be in college but maybe 2024.

What is a challenge you have had to face as an athlete?

I had to have surgery on my left knee in 8th grade and then my right knee in 9th grade for my meniscus. I lost a lot of training time but I'm making up for it now.

What are your main goals for this upcoming track season?

My main goal for this track season is to break our school record in the discus and hopefully win state in the shot put.

Is it more fun to lift or to throw, or would you rather not have to choose?

I enjoy both a lot, so I'd rather not have to choose.

Do you have any college plans yet?

I plan on going to college, although I don't know where yet.

What are some of the things you are looking for in a potential college choice?

I'm looking for a college that would have around 15,000 students, so that it's not to big. I'm not sure what my major is going to be yet, but I'm looking at colleges that have good engineering and medical programs. Of course I'm also looking for a college with the right coach.

Do you have any rituals, routines, or superstitions either on or off the track?

I always pray before I throw and lift.

When not doing anything track-related, what might we find you doing?

You'd probably find me lifting or cooking.

Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.

When I was little I could spell any word backwards faster than I could spell it forward.