Rahway high school athlete Sha'Carri Richardson made an immediate mark on track and field. She triumphed at the Olympic Trials 100m race, sealing her spot on Team USA for Tokyo 2020. She's known for her social activism, serving as an example to young athletes. But what's behind the curtain of her personality? Sha’Carri Richardson’s Star-Spangled Wig As world-class track and field athletes converge in Eugene, Ore. for the 2022 USA Championships, one rising star is quickly making her presence felt in track and field. Sha'Carri Richardson won a 100-meter race at last year's Olympic trials and showed promise as one of America's next medal-winning sprinters; she even broke a 30-year old NCAA 100 meter record! Although she's experienced great success, she is no stranger to the scrutiny that comes with being a public figure in an extremely competitive sport. She frequently receives criticism for minor things and sometimes finds it difficult to cope with such scrutiny. Yet this doesn't stop her from working hard and striving to meet her goals. Style is another hallmark of her individuality within the sport, and her striking appearance stands out among competitors. She doesn't shy away from showing her sexuality and often sports long nails and dyes her locks different colors - something which has long been inspired by Flo-Jo and other women who don't fear standing out. Her grandmother remains one of her main influences, while others such as Flo-Jo provide additional inspiration. Sha'Carri is not only a fierce competitor but also an accomplished businesswoman who understands how to market herself and keep her fans engaged. She serves as an example for young women and girls to emulate, using her platform to promote healthy messages about body image and nutrition. While she remains an up-and-comer in her sport, her future remains unclear following an acceptance of a one-month suspension for marijuana use and being disqualified from competing at the Olympics. Her goal is to be back competing by July 30, just prior to Tokyo Games starting, in time to compete in 4x100 relay competition should she receive clearance. Sha'Carri Richardson will be one of the stars to watch as this year's USA Championships kick off this week, having made an immediate mark since winning her 100-meter Olympic Trials race last year. She has already created quite an impactful statement about herself within her sport. Sha’Carri Richardson’s Braids Sha'Carri Richardson may be well known for her track and field accomplishments, but the young sprinter offers much more. Not only is she a fierce competitor but her stylish persona always attracts people's attention; whether wearing colorful wigs or long acrylics she never fails to make an impressionful statement - often taking to social media as well to show it off! Flo-Jo has often drawn comparisons for being one of the fastest women ever and Richardson often draws comparisons as being likened to her legendary predecessor Florence Griffith Joyner as they both boast speed as well as flair! Richardson captured many fans' hearts during a recent race by her striking and colorful locks. At introductions for the finals of 100 meters, during introductions before finals she took off her orange wig and tossed it behind her, showing off her long braids to the crowd and showing her appreciation of their support. It wasn't only an admirable display of strength; but also showed them she truly appreciated their support! Richardson captured the hearts of her fans who applauded her for showing off her natural beauty, reminding them she is more than just an athlete; she is deeply loved by both family and supporters. It wasn't the first time Richardson showed her appreciation; last year Usain Bolt and Allyson Felix both applauded Richardson for defending her right to choose her own hairstyle. Richardson qualified for the Olympics this past weekend by qualifying in the 100 meter dash at the U.S Championships despite her mother's passing earlier that week. She finished strong and celebrated with Betty Harp while being encouraged by her grandfather during post-race interviews; during which, she let out several deep breaths as her emotions surfaced during post-race interviews. Sha'Carri Richardson is an emerging star who does not shy away from standing up for what she believes in, inspiring young women and becoming a force on the track. Though her career began on an uncertain note, it is evident that this young sprinter will overcome any issues to achieve greatness in her chosen field. Sha’Carri Richardson’s Smile Richardson made her victory lap a memorable one, donning long braids styled into star shape braids and showing off an impressive array of facial hair and body modifications, such as having her ears pierced for added character. As she looked over at Hayward Field with fiery eyes before climbing into the stands and hugging family members. Richardson is quickly making a name for herself on the track but this marks only just beginning of her career journey. She excelled as a sprinter both at her high school and Louisiana State University's track team, but decided to forego her senior year to go pro and compete at the Olympics instead. Now a pro-am sprinter in America's 100 meter sprint competitions, she remains undeterred in her goal of earning her first major medal. Texas native Darien Moore had an outstanding start to 2023, winning first place in Switzerland's Diamond League 100 meters and running under 11 seconds for the first time this season. Unfortunately, her performance in Eugene did not meet expectations; she struggled out of the blocks and never seemed to reach full speed down the straightaway. But that result has not taken away her momentum! Sha'Carri has made it abundantly clear she is unhappy with how track and field treats its female athletes, including low pay when winning national championships and no TV coverage of track and field competition. Richardson remains uncertain whether she will compete at the Tokyo Games. The 21-year-old had high expectations in the women's 4x100 relay competition at Tokyo, but her positive drug test from last month disqualified her and prevented her from qualifying for her team. No matter if she ever competes at the Olympics or not, Richardson has made an invaluable contribution to track and field. As an inspirational athlete and role model for young women. Additionally, Richardson dedicates much of her time helping those in need; she works at For Oak Cliff an organization which offers support services for children who have been oppressed systematically. Sha’Carri Richardson’s Fierce Demeanor Sha'Carri Richardson won the 100-meter race at last year's Olympic trials and seemed poised to become America's next great sprinter. Unfortunately, she failed a drug test and was banned from competing at the Games - however she has returned to training since and continues to impress on the track. Fans and media alike love this talented sprinter for her speed, style, and charisma. She often compares with legendary Florence Griffith Joyner (Flo Jo) due to her flair and talent. She's been open about her mental health struggles and mother's death, making her even more relatable. On the track, her confidence can be seen clapping, cheering, and posing for photos with fans after her races have ended. Sha'Carri was one of the greatest college sprinters ever and broke numerous records during her one season with LSU. Yet more than just an athlete, she is an iconic figure who will long be remembered by LSU alumni as one of their own. However, she has recently begun showing signs of improvement since the trials. She had some successful performances this season at Texas Relay and Miramar Invitationals; with continued improvement she could be ready for World Championship competition at 2023 World Championships. However, she has her critics. Her decision to use marijuana to cope with her mother's death was controversial and resulted in being barred from Olympic competition due to failing a drug test - some feel this punishment symbolizes how marijuana remains stigmatized and highlights how Black people often pay a disproportionately high price when U.S. drug laws are enforced. At the Prefontaine Classic earlier this month, Sha'Carri came in last in her signature event of 100 meters and did not make an announcement afterward to media. Instead she was comforted by family and friends during this difficult momentous occasion. Sha'Carri is still hoping to secure her spot on the US team for this summer's World Championships in Budapest despite her setback at 100 meters, by finishing among the top three at this week's US championships in Eugene, Oregon. To do so, she must finish in the top three in her 100 m race in Eugene.