 "Photo: Courtesy of NCCU Athletics")
In recent years N.C. Central University has been making a name for itself in track and field.
One track star to emerge from the team is chemistry senior Desinia Johnson.
Johnson, who runs the 800m and 1500m, has emerged from being a good runner into being an experience, well-rounded runner.
Coach Lawson described the improvements that he noticed in Desinia since she first started running as a freshman.
“When Desinia first started running as a freshman she was inexperienced but could run well,” said Lawson.
“In later stages she developed to be a long distance runner. She is a seasoned athlete as far as training and competition.”
Lawson also noted that Johnson’s confidence has been soaring.
“Desinia always had talent but the confidence wasn’t there. This year the confidence is there.”
In 2006 Desinia was a part of the cross country champion track team and was also a member of the 2006 regional track team.
The 2006 track champs were the first HBCU to win NCAA regionals. In 2007 Desinia won the 1500m and the 3000m outdoor competition at Virginia State University. This event ended with Desinia being named co-MVP.
Although she has many accomplishments Johnson shows no signs of slowing down.
Unfortunately Johnson won’t be able to compete at a national championship level but still has her goal to run a 2.05 in 800m.
“It takes a lot of dedication, responsibility and hard work,” she said.
Aside from the physical workload Johnson also prepares mentally.
“You have to believe in yourself and don’t let your mind get in the way of running the race. I also have to trust in the intuition of coach Lawson.”
Aside from working to reach her goal Johnson also finds time to serve as the vice president of Los Salseros, a salsa group.
Johnson dedicates her success to her mother.
“My mother used to run and I wanted to be like her so in 7th grade I started running and I stuck with running long distance ever since,” she said.
Johnson is determined on reaching her mark and improving her time. “When I put in the hard work and time and can look at what comes out of it that is a good feeling. Improving my time is what inspires me to be a better runner.”
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