media_artricles :: 2017

Jereem eyes more medals

Adidas sprinter to stay with college coach

JEREEM "The Dream" Richards is looking forward to earning more international medals for Trinidad and Tobago.

Richards enjoyed a breakout season in 2017, closing off his campaign with men's 200 metres bronze and 4x400m gold at the IAAF World Championships in London, England, last month. On Tuesday, his efforts were rewarded with a lucrative Adidas contract.

"My expectations," Richards told the Express after signing on the dotted line, "are to continue giving 100 percent in all events and bringing back medals. "Going pro means a lot to me," the 23-year-old sprinter continued. "It has always been my goal since I started. I'm thankful that God has given me the talent and blessed me richly."

Adidas was not the only sports equipment manufacturer pursuing Richards.

"Adidas gave me the best offer," the University of Alabama student explained. "The offer has been on the table a few weeks now."

Following a successful junior college career competing for South Plains, Richards transferred to Alabama. In just one season, the Point Fortin athlete became an Alabama great, setting school records in the indoor and outdoor 200m events. The 20.31 seconds indoor record is also the T&T indoor standard, while his 19.97 outdoor clocking makes Richards the second fastest T&T sprinter in the event, behind national record holder Ato Boldon (19.77).

At the 2017 NCAA Indoor Championships, Richards earned silver with the 20.31 sizzler. And at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, the talented sprinter bagged bronze. In turning pro, Richards gave up his final year of collegiate eligibility. However, he will remain in Alabama to continue training under the guidance of Blaine Wiley.

"I'm staying with my coach and training here."

Though Richards is now a full-time professional athlete, he will complete his studies at University of Alabama. The T&T half-lap champion is in his final semester, and will be able to focus wholly and solely on his track pursuits in 2018.

Richards is being represented by Global Athletics & Marketing, Inc., with the company's president Mark Wetmore serving as his agent.

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