Masai Russell reflects on Bullis school’s pivotal role in her journey to Olympic glory

Olympic 100m hurdles champion Masai Russell has shed light on how her time at Bullis School, under the guidance of renowned coach Joe Lee, laid the foundation for her exceptional athletic career.

Speaking to , Russell detailed the lessons and values instilled during her formative years at the prestigious high school track and field program.

Bullis School, located in Potomac, Maryland, has risen to national prominence under Lee’s 12-year tenure. Known for his meticulous attention to detail and relentless dedication, Lee has transformed the school’s track and field program into a powerhouse, claiming 14 conference championships since 2014.

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This August, Lee’s coaching efforts reached a pinnacle at the Paris Olympic Games, where two of his former athletes secured gold medals. Masai Russell triumphed in the women’s 100 meters hurdles, while Quincy Wilson contributed to the U.S. men’s 4×400 meters relay victory with a critical performance in the heats.

Reflecting on their success, Lee expressed his pride and admiration. «You really want to see the people who work hard and go after their goals to be rewarded at the highest level,» he told last August. “Coaching has its highs and lows… but it’s about resilience. Masai and Quincy have been through a lot. To see their fight and their will, they have a heart of a champion.”

For Russell, the influence of Bullis extended beyond the track, shaping her competitive spirit and mental fortitude. “You have a standard within yourself and the one under the program you are competing with,” she explained. “If you are not running fast and good, that is nobody else’s problem but yours, and that is the mentality our coaches instilled in us.”

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Russell also credited her upbringing for molding her unyielding determination. Growing up with brothers in a competitive environment, she learned to fight for the top spot, a mindset that has served her well on the global stage.

“I am not going to give up until I get what I want,” she said. “You don’t notice how monumental those things are until you find yourself in real-life situations, faced with adversity and backs against the wall.”

Russell’s reflections underscore the multifaceted influences that shaped her success. From the rigorous standards set by Bullis’ track program to the life lessons learned from her family, every element contributed to her evolution into a world-class athlete.

Now a Nike-contracted professional, Russell embodies the brand’s mantra, “Just Do It,” while remaining grounded in the values instilled by her early mentors. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

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