This is Jeff Benjamin’s interview with Donald Scott, TJ champion, competing in Budapest on Day 1, at 19:37 local time, 12:37 East Coast, 11:37 AM Chicago, and 9 :37 in SFO!
RunBlogRun, 1) How’d you feel about your performance at USATF last month?
Donald Scott: “I would say it was a great meet. I won my 9th national title, hit a season’s best, hit the world standard, and made the world championship team. I’m proud of that.”
RunBlogRun, 2) Was the goal to just make the team, or were you satisfied with your place?
Donald Scott: “The goal was to win, which lead to making the team. I went into the meet just looking to do what I’ve been doing at practice, and everything lined up.”
Donald Scott, TJ champion, USATF Outdoor Track and Field Championships held at Hayward Field, University of Oregon, July 6-10, 2023, photo with Kevin Morris
RunBlogRun, 3) What’s different – training both physically & mentally – between the 2022 & the 2023 Donald Scott?
Donald Scott: “Physically, I am faster than last year. There are still some technical things to work on, but I’m definitely more faster. Mentally it has been up and down due to some life changes, but I’m still staying focused on getting a medal at this world championship.”
RunBlogRun, 4) Who’s coaching you, and who’s your support staff? – you can include your family!
Donald Scott: “I moved to Gainesville, Florida, from Ypsilanti, Michigan, to train at the University of Florida with Nic Peterson. Things are going well since I moved. My support staff is definitely my family and some close friends.”
RunBlogRun, 5) Going forward to Budapest – how are you preparing both physically & mentally, and do you think the personal challenges you have faced have made you a better athlete??
Donald Scott: “Going into Budapest I feel like I’m in a great position to medal. Physically I’m well, and mentally I’m positive that I’m going to do my best. My life challenges motivate me every day to just keep pushing through all adversity. I’m not the type to be down or anything just because life hits.”
RunBlogRun, 6) What kind of advice would you like to give to young T&F athletes out there?
Donald Scott: “My advice I would give to a younger athlete is to stay patient and try not to rush the process. Give your all and always stay focused because no one is giving handouts. You have to work hard in order to get to the top.”
