Despite Coming in 3rd, NAU’s Nico Young Pens His Name in Track and Field History Close to Paris Olympics

On April 27, the Desert Heat Classic 2024 took place at Roy P. Drachman Stadium, marking a significant event in the world of track and field. Hosted by the University of Arizona, one person who is evidently on cloud nine is 21-year-old Nico Young.

Competing in both the 3000m and 5000m categories, the runner displayed mastery in both disciplines, solidifying his position as a force in the sport. With a recent hefty endorsement deal with Adidas, Young’s ascent continues, adding another chapter to his storied career. Securing third place in the Desert Heat Classic 2024 with a time of 1:47:65, Young’s achievement garnered attention worldwide. Now a new social media update showcases how Nico Young just became the second man in history to run sub-27 in the 10k and sub-1:48 in the 800m. Hence, no doubt that he is the next big thing to watch out for in the Olympics.

When the results were out, CITIUS MAG posted a new update on their X handle which showcased the star’s preparations right away, raising expectations from him for the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. The first two holders are Coldin Shalman, from Northern Arizona at 1:45:63, and Rivaldo Marshall, IOWA University at  1:46:38. And just third-placed was Nico Young.

The post caption read, “NAU’s Colin Sahlman runs a big 800M best of 1:45.63 to takedown NCAA champions Rivaldo Marshall and Nico Young at the Desert Heat Classic in Tucson”. Amidst an array of impressive performances, Nico Young stood out as the first collegian to break the sub-13 category in both indoor and outdoor 5k events, clocking an impressive 12:57.14 in January. Although slightly off the mark on Friday, his upcoming races, including the 3k indoor event against Ky Robinson, promise excitement.

As Nico gears up for the US Olympics trial in June, each performance adds to his journey, potentially elevating his personal rank. This anticipation builds on his previous successes, such as his double NCAA victory in Boston. Beyond his athletic prowess, Nico’s story takes on added significance. In a courageous move back in 2022, he publicly shared his truth on social media, coming out as gay to his followers. In an emotional Instagram post, Nico opened up about his struggles with self-acceptance.

He wrote, “Hi, I’m Nico, and I’m gay.” He further added, saying, “This may come as a shock to some of you, but this is something I have always known and have finally decided to share with the world. Anyone who tells you that being gay is a choice is wrong. I am living proof that it is not a choice, it is something I have always known and been aware of, but have kept silent out of fear of rejection. I have struggled to accept myself, but I am becoming more proud and happy with who I am.”

His candid revelation reflects a journey of self-discovery marking a significant moment not just in his athletic career, but in his personal journey towards authenticity.