Sharika Nelvis is in the midst of a stellar, rookie professional track and field season. The sprint hurdler, who graduated from Arkansas State last year, won seven consecutive races during this past indoor season, including the 60m hurdles in 7.91 at the 108^th NYRR Millrose Games. She ended the indoor season with the fastest 60m hurdle time in the world (7.83) and currently owns the fastest 100m hurdle time in the world (12.34). We caught up with the self-described “hurdleholic” to find out what a few of her favorite things are.

Favorite race

My favorite race was this year’s USATF Championship final in Eugene, Oregon. Although I didn’t win, I accomplished my goal of finishing top three and making the team. That was a goal I set for myself since graduating from Arkansas State last year. I was overwhelmed with joy, and after the race I was speechless. I wanted to burst into tears, but I’m tough, so I held them back. God was with me, and I am forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given, but it isn’t over. I have a couple more goals I have to accomplish this year. Stay tuned!

Favorite thing about being a pro athlete

I'm getting paid to do a job that I would do for free! I love the fact that I can inspire people to get up and go after their dreams no matter the adversities they face. I’m traveling around the world seeing places I have never seen or even knew existed. I want to continue to share these types of experiences with the people who may look up to me or follow my career and let them know that anything is possible through faith, hard work and dedication.

Favorite thing about being a hurdler

My favorite thing about being a hurdler would have to be winning. Week after week I am competing against some of the best athletes in the world. I watch and look up to the people I compete against, and I respect them as well as the craft. I love everything about being a hurdler. I’m a hurdleholic.

Favorite thing about competing at The Armory

The atmosphere was everything. The energy from the crowd gave me life. I had never been to New York, so it was my first time seeing Manhattan and the scenery. I got on the subway for the first time and caught a lot of cabs throughout that weekend. It was a great experience.

Favorite lane

I have a least favorite lane, and that’s lane eight. I’ll take any lane over lane eight, but it honestly doesn’t matter. Put me anywhere on the track and I’m going to perform and run my race.

Favorite workout

My favorite workout is anything that involves hurdles.

Favorite post-race meal

There’s nothing like some good ol’ chicken alfredo before or after my races.

Favorite song to listen to before competing

I don’t have a favorite song to listen to, but I put my phone on my “turn up” playlist and hit shuffle. My race day playlist consists of a lot of rap.

Favorite old school Nickelodeon show

Hey Arnold and The Rugrats would have to be my two favorites. 

Favorite travel accessory

I have to have a variety of lipsticks with me.

Favorite phone app

Lately I have been on Snapchat a lot, but another app I open up everyday for motivation is Inspiration. Also Twitter!

Favorite track and field event to watch

I actually don't mind watching every event at a track meet, but my favorites would have to be the 100, 200 and 400 meter dashes. The 800 is very entertaining to watch along with 4x1 and 4x4 meter relays.

Favorite thing to do during the off-season

I’ve honestly never had an off-season. This is my first year as a professional, but I know for the most part I just want to find that sense of normalcy. I want to lie around, play my video games and chill. I want to enjoy the simple things for a while until it’s time to get back on my grind and become great.  I know it won’t last long because I love to work and get better every day, but a week or two to relax won’t be too bad.

Photo by John Nepolitan