Thelma Davies, a Girard College and Louisiana State University graduate, will be participating in the 2024 Olympics in Paris as a sprinter, writes Aaron Carter for The Philadelphia Inquirer.

Her journey to the Olympics is the latest chapter of a harrowing, inspirational one.

A native of Liberia, Davies was born in a refugee camp during the second of two civil wars that West African country went through.

At about 9 months old, her father left for the United States in search of a better life, before sending for his wife and daughter about two years later.

Five years after that, the family moved to Philadelphia.

While in the sixth grade at Girard College, Davies met the now-late track coach Rick Leek, the first person to notice her athletic talent.

After Leek passed away in 2014, Davies vowed to continue running for him.

At Girard, Davies became the first track athlete to win four consecutive PIAA titles in both the 100 and 200 meters.

Upon arriving to LSU, Davies endured several setbacks. This includes being diagnosed with erythema mulitforme, getting COVID, suffering a hamstring injury, stress fracture in her foot, and a right quad injury.

“I guess I’ve learned how resilient and persistent I can be if I really want something,” said Davies.

Read more about Thelma Davies’ journey to the Olympics in The Philadelphia Inquirer.

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