Today we’d like to introduce you to Alya Alghamdi.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I’m originally from Saudi Arabia, having grown up in a large family with ten siblings. Fast forward to today, I’m currently living in Dallas, training to become an international track and field athlete, with a mission to compete in the 2021 Olympics.
Yet before my successful venture into the world of professional athletics, I’ve faced my own set of obstacles. After leaving Saudi Arabia (along with the traditional death threat I received before embarking on my journey), which I very much consider to be my home, I ventured to Europe where I first saw the world through a different lens. It allowed me to discover my true calling – running. I spent time experiencing different activities such as training for marathons, took time to climb Mount Everest, and even learned how to surf and skateboard.
As soon as I set my eye on training for the 2016 Olympics, that’s where I had a difficult yet eye opening experience. My personal track records, some record breaking, captured the attention of the Saudi Arabia’s National Olympic Committee. They extended an invitation to join their women’s track and field team for the 2016 Olympic games in Rio. I was beyond thrilled. Unfortunately, the opportunity was taken right out from under me, although it was never my sports performances that led them to this decision. I was left devastated.
They immediately cut my training funds and ordered me to return to Saudi Arabia. I was left with two choices: accept “no” or try harder. I decided to go on my own and do whatever I had to do to get me to the next Olympic games. I’m preparing myself to compete for a two-day event that would somehow showcase my worth from four years of training. Now, given the circumstances, the 2020 Olympic games have been postponed. So now, I’m trying wrap my head around the fact that I will soon have spent nine years preparing for the next Olympics which is 2021. I wasn’t going to allow one disappointment stop me from showcasing my talent and hard-work. It was that challenging experience that continues to fuel my motivation to achieve my dream.
Has it been a smooth road?
Far from it. Aside from being denied by Saudi Arabia’s 2016 track and field team, I had to learn how to adapt to a life that wouldn’t allow me to be around my family all the time since I left my country. It was tough – it forced me to mentally block out emotions. Although I love my family with all my heart, they will never be my biggest cheerleaders when it comes to supporting my dream. I’m so focused on reaching my goal that it’s become the one thing in life I love the most.
Then, I’ve always noticed that my peers seem more advanced than me in the sport of track and field, given the privileges and resources they’ve had their whole life. I feel deprived at times when I think about all the opportunities, I could’ve had years ago at a young age. Sadly, sports were banned in my country which is exactly why I consider my sport a privilege. It is my pride and joy.
Finally, through all the hardships, I learned how to adjust and keep a positive attitude in everything I do. I often hold pep talk conferences with myself, all the while holding myself accountable, by telling myself that I am the only competition. I constantly remind myself that “self-battle is a terrible loss and it’s the greatest win of all.”
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I’m a professional athlete focused on achieving my personal goals of becoming the fastest female from Saudi Arabia. Most recently, I broke Saudi Arabia’s 60-meter record but that was just one small step I’ve taken. I hope to continue to surpass all personal 60/100/200 meters throughout the remainder of my career. It’s a long journey but I’m ready to continue to ensure it is exactly where I plan to be. I’m extremely proud of how I’ve controlled my life, I have, and continue to make it the life I want it to be. It is not my intention to reach a “role model” status, instead, I want to be looked at as someone who is living proof of someone who took their passion and made it their reality. I continue to chase my dream day and night, and I think my willpower is somewhat admirable. I’m very fortunate and look forward to witnessing what I accomplish next.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/only_alya/
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