LAKELAND, Fla. — An oval track is more than just a playing ground for Chelsi Williams. It’s where she does her best work. And it’s also a form of therapy.

What You Need To Know

  • Chelsi Williams won four medals at track and field state championships

  • She won gold in the 100-meter hurdles and the long jump

  • She was named the Florida Dairy Farmers Miss Track, an honor awarded to the top high school athlete in the Sunshine State

“I come out here so I can stay sane and possibly reach my goal,” Williams said.

The George Jenkins High School rising junior has her sights set on bigger and better things on the track. Already in high school, she’s achieved so much.

She defended her long jump title at the Track and Field State Championships in May. She also won gold in the 100-meter hurdles. She added silver medals to her haul in the 400-meter hurdles and the triple jump.

To cap off her sophomore season, Williams was named the Florida Dairy Farmers Miss Track, an honor bestowed on the top high school athlete from the Sunshine State.

“Track is like my first love,” she said. “I’ve been doing it ever since I can remember. So, it’s like the only thing I really know.”

With so much already accomplished at such a young age, Williams continues to push herself.

“I set goals every year,” she said. “Or if I make the goals mid-season, I just keep reaching, keep looking for something to look forward to.”

There’s something off in the distance Williams is looking forward to. It’s the big goal she is putting in all this hard work for — her dream of qualifying for the Olympics.

“I want to qualify for the Olympics,” Williams said. “I just want to at least make the Olympics and I’ll be satisfied.”