April 24, 2000

by Derrick Burson, Illinois Athletic Public Relations Intern

The Richards File:
Year: Graduate Student in Advertising
Events: Sprints, Relays
Home town: Kingston, Jamaica
High School: St. Andrews
Accomplishments: Six-time Big Ten champion, three-time All-American

DB: How does a Jamaican sprinter end up in Champaign?
KAR: I looked around at a lot of programs. I was trying to find the ideal school with a reputable coach, good sprinting, and most importantly, strong academics. When I visited U of I, I liked the school environment, I was impressed with how close-knit the team was, and Gary (Winckler) came highly recommended by a lot of track coaches I knew. Everyone had good things to say about his coaching.

DB: Many people do not know about all of the injuries you've battled throughout your career. How difficult has it been?
KAR: It's been really hard. You train and practice, pushing your body to its limits, and then to not be able to perform like you know you can because of an injury, it can be really frustrating.

DB: You've had many memorable moments on the track during your collegiate career. What is the one that sticks out most in your mind?
KAR: I'd have to say winning the Big Ten in the 60 this year. That was a very special race to me because I had been in a lot of pain, and hadn't even been able to train in the weeks leading up to the meet. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it, and it was definitely an emotional victory.

DB: You're in your last season of collegiate track. What has it been like, and what will you miss about it the most?
KAR: I've accomplished more than I ever thought I could. Coming out of high school, I never dreamed that I would run as fast as I have here. I have really enjoyed the times I've had with the girls on the team. There is a feeling you get belonging to something significant, like Illinois Track, and there's a certain level of pride that comes with that. I think that's what I will miss most of all, being a part of the team and the camaraderie with my teammates.

DB: What are your plans for after graduation?
KAR: I don't see myself walking away from track at this point. I'd like to keep training and try and pursue track for a couple of years. There are opportunities out there, especially running in Europe, that exist after college is over. I've never planned to do it forever, but at the same time I don't want to stop now.

DB: What's your favorite event?
KAR: The 100, without a doubt. I never ran indoors until I came here, so the 60 was new to me. I think it's too short--if you make one little mistake in that event, you're in trouble. And the 200 is just not my event. But the 100 is perfect, it's an all-out sprint and, at the same time, is a very strategic event. Some people think that sprinters just go out and run fast, they don't realize that these are technical events where a lot of strategy is involved. I really appreciate how much Gary has helped me improve in the 100. He has really taught me to how visualize and prepare for the different phases of the race.

DB: Fast forward 20 years. You are the president of the nation's top advertising agency. What will you do with all of that money?
KAR: Hopefully I'll be invited back to campus to be honored or to accept a fancy award. When I get here I'll stop by practice to see all of the new faces, and I'll make an announcement that I am building a new indoor track.