How Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone Glorifies God Through Her Career
By Movieguide® Contributor
With a remarkable career that has captivated the track and field world, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has kept God at the center of her journey from a young prodigy to a global sensation.
Born on August 7, 1999, in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Sydney McLaughlin’s affinity for sports was evident from an early age. She quickly gained attention for her impressive performances in high school track and field events, setting records and turning heads with her speed and agility. Her meteoric rise continued when, at 16, she made her debut at the 2016 Rio Olympics, becoming the youngest American track and field Olympian in four decades.
In the following years, McLaughlin solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with. A hurdler and sprinter, she specializes in the 400 meters hurdles, an event that demands both speed and precision.
McLaughlin-Levrone attended the University of Kentucky for one year. While her time there was short because she became a professional, McLaughlin-Levrone made her mark on the program.
McLaughlin-Levrone “Won theNCAA 400-meter hurdles gold by nearly two seconds in a hail storm … Broke the 400H collegiate record by nearly a second running 52.75 to win the Southeastern Conference title in May … Collegiate-record performance was also the 13th-fastest 400m hurdles time ever recorded and smashed her world junior record … Became the ninth fastest 400m hurdler on the world all-time list (a few runners have multiple times on the list),” the University of Kentucky reported.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Athletics demands rigorous training, mental fortitude and the ability to rebound from setbacks. Injuries are common in such a demanding sport.
After recently competing in a qualifying race for World Championships, she suffered a minor injury to her knee, which has left her sidelined for the World Championships.
Movieguide® reported on her injury:
McLaughlin-Levrone recently shared, “I am sad to share that I must withdraw from this year’s world championships meet in Budapest. After consulting with my doctors and coaches, I need to take care of a minor knee issue so that I can be fully healthy for next year’s Paris Olympics. I look forward to seeing everyone back on the track soon.”
“We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to seeing her back on the track soon,” USA Track and Field stated.
With all that McLaughlin-Levrone has endured, she holds to her faith.
Following the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (which occurred in 2021 due to COVID), McLaughlin-Levrone shared a photo of her after her event with an American flag over her back on her Instagram.
The track and field star wrote, “Let me start off by saying, what and honor it is to be able to represent not only my country, but also the kingdom of God. What I have in Christ is far greater than what I have or don’t have in life. I pray my journey may be a clear depiction of submission and obedience to God. Even when it doesn’t make sense, even when it doesn’t seem possible.”
In another post, after she qualified for the World Championships in Budapest, McLaughlin-Levrone wrote, “God’s grace is sufficient for each and every day. The peace He brings surpasses that of any outcome, and the joy of running for Him, makes these moments that much sweeter…To God be the glory.”
Beyond her individual achievements, McLaughlin-Levrone has also been an advocate for women in sports and a source of inspiration for young athletes around the world.
Her dedication to her craft, willingness to push boundaries and humility in the face of success make her a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
Now more than ever we’re bombarded by darkness in media, movies, and TV. Movieguide® has fought back for almost 40 years, working within Hollywood to propel uplifting and positive content. We’re proud to say we’ve collaborated with some of the top industry players to influence and redeem entertainment for Jesus. Still, the most influential person in Hollywood is you. The viewer.
What you listen to, watch, and read has power. Movieguide® wants to give you the resources to empower the good and the beautiful. But we can’t do it alone. We need your support.
You can make a difference with as little as $7. It takes only a moment. If you can, consider supporting our ministry with a monthly gift. Thank you.
Movieguide® is a 501c3 and all donations are tax deductible.
