Olympic 100m Hurdles Champion Masai Russell Reflects On Her Breakout 2024 Season + Early Race Plans/Goals For 2025

“I know that I have to come in even stronger, even faster, even better. I'm looking to break the world record indoors this season and win the world indoor title. That’s not going to come with me still living in being an Olympic champion from August. We've got to do it again.”

My guest for today's episode is Masai Russell, the Olympic champion in the 100m hurdles and one of track's brightest new stars. Masai's gold medal performance in Paris wasn't just a victory; it was a statement after a season filled with ups and downs and doubts. She channeled sheer will and resilience to seize the biggest title of her career crossing the finish line in a jaw-dropping photo finish that left fans around the world celebrating her triumph.

In this episode, Masai reflects on her remarkable 2024 season, the challenges she overcame to reach the top, and how she's already back to work with even bigger plans for 2025. There's also some great mindset talk in this conversation. 

Plus, she's here to announce one of her first races of 2025 will be the 60m hurdles at the Millrose Games. This upcoming February, you can get your tickets on the Armory's website. She'll bring the same fearless energy that made her an Olympic champion.

Host: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on Instagram

Guest: Masai Russell | @masai_russell on Instagram

Time stamps:

3:20 - How life has been since becoming the 100m hurdles Olympic champion

4:17 - Opportunities since winning the Olympics

6:28 - Plans for racing indoor season 

8:06 - Millrose annoucement: 60m hurdles

12:03 - How she progresses training to peak at the right meets

16:07 - What makes her stand out against her competitors 

21:03 - The night and day leading into the Olympic final 

26:47 - When the reality of becoming the Olympic champion sunk in 

29:23 - How her experience at Bullis High School shaped her mindset 

35:53 - Looking ahead to future races 

41:18 - More reflections on winning the Olympics

44:05 - What it’s going to take to top 2024 in 2025

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