Evelyn Ashford Quotes

Powerful Evelyn Ashford for Daily Growth

About Evelyn Ashford

Evelyn Ashford, a distinguished figure in the world of sports journalism, was born on June 17, 1968, in Sacramento, California. Growing up in a family that valued education and athletics, Evelyn excelled both academically and athletically. She was introduced to track and field at a young age and quickly demonstrated an exceptional talent for sprinting. Evelyn's professional career as a track athlete took off when she won the gold medal in the 100-meter dash at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, setting a world record of 10.79 seconds. This victory marked the beginning of her remarkable athletic journey that included three Olympic medals and multiple World Championship titles. After retiring from competitive sports in 1996, Evelyn transitioned into journalism. She pursued a career as a sportscaster, becoming one of the first African American women to hold such a position. Her work has been featured on various platforms, including ESPN and NBC Sports. Evelyn's influence extends beyond her professional accomplishments. She is an inspiration to many young athletes, demonstrating that with determination, hard work, and perseverance, one can achieve greatness both on and off the track. Throughout her career, Evelyn Ashford has left an indelible mark on the world of sports journalism and athletics. Her quotes often reflect her unyielding spirit and passion for excellence: "I always wanted to be number one because I knew I could be," and "You have to believe in yourself when no one else does." These words continue to inspire and motivate those who strive to reach their full potential.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"Believe in yourself, take care of your body, and make sure you have a good team around you."

This quote by Evelyn Ashford emphasizes the importance of self-confidence, physical wellness, and supportive relationships in personal achievement. Believing in oneself fosters resilience and determination, essential qualities for overcoming challenges. Taking care of one's body signifies prioritizing health and fitness as a foundation for success. Lastly, having a good team around you underscores the value of collaboration, camaraderie, and mutual support in pursuing goals effectively. Together, these elements create an empowering environment that encourages growth and success.


"I don't look at it as competing against others; I view my competitors as a part of my journey to self-improvement."

This quote suggests that instead of viewing competition as a confrontation with other individuals, Evelyn Ashford sees it as an integral part of her personal growth process. In essence, she uses the presence of competitors not as obstacles but as catalysts to drive herself towards self-improvement. It's a testament to her mindset and approach to competition, emphasizing self-development over victory against others.


"Success is never final, failure is never fatal: It's courage that counts."

Evelyn Ashford's quote emphasizes that success and failure are temporary states. Success should not be seen as a final achievement, as it can always be surpassed. Similarly, failure should not be viewed as a fatal outcome, as it provides opportunities for learning and growth. Instead, the true measure of a person lies in their courage - the ability to face challenges, learn from mistakes, and continue striving towards their goals despite setbacks. This quote underscores the importance of resilience, determination, and perseverance in overcoming obstacles and achieving long-term success.


"You can't always be the best, but you can always try your hardest."

This quote by Evelyn Ashford underscores the importance of personal effort over outcomes in life. It suggests that one may not always achieve the top position or become the 'best', but what truly matters is striving for excellence, giving one's best effort consistently. The quote encourages individuals to focus on their progress rather than being fixated on achieving the highest rank, as the journey of self-improvement and personal growth offers far more enduring rewards than temporary victories.


"The key is not the will to win... everybody has that. It is the will to prepare to win that is important."

Evelyn Ashford's quote emphasizes the importance of preparation over mere desire for victory. The willingness to win, she suggests, is a common trait among competitors. However, it is the dedication, discipline, and effort put into preparing to win that truly sets individuals apart. In other words, one should not only aim for success but also invest time and energy in developing the skills, strategies, and knowledge needed to achieve that success.


I was single-minded and I had tunnel vision. Now it's time for a change.

- Evelyn Ashford

Vision, Now, Tunnel Vision, Single-Minded

I can feel the wind go by when I run. It feels good. It feels fast.

- Evelyn Ashford

Fast, Go, Feels, Wind

I am thrilled to be 31, still running and having my daughter watch me even if it is on TV.

- Evelyn Ashford

Still, TV, Having, Thrilled

I want to combine a business major with studies in clothing and textiles.

- Evelyn Ashford

Business, Want, Major, Combine

I've noticed that since I've been pregnant I see babies everywhere. I love talking to them. I never used to really like kids that much. I guess it comes out of you naturally.

- Evelyn Ashford

Love, Been, I See, Pregnant

Before me, sprinters retired at 23 or 24. I run because I still like it, I can make a living, and I feel I was born to do it. And because people tell me I can't do it.

- Evelyn Ashford

Living, Before, Still, Retired

Now, I talk to athletes who answer questions with a 'yeah'. I realize I used to do that. Or they answer very quickly and you stand there trying to come up with another question to ask. I've seen both sides and it's been very educational.

- Evelyn Ashford

Both Sides, Been, Very, Sides

I have a nice family and I'm well rounded.

- Evelyn Ashford

Family, Nice, Well, Rounded

When I'm running fast, I don't feel anything, it's effortless, it's like my feet don't even touch the ground, it's like I'm flying.

- Evelyn Ashford

Feet, Like, Effortless, Flying

I want it all. Fame, fortune and all the commercials there are to do.

- Evelyn Ashford

Fame, Want, Fortune, Commercials

I take pride in everything I do. I don't want to be handed anything. I want to earn it.

- Evelyn Ashford

Pride, Want, Take, Handed

Whatever muscles I have are the product of my own hard work and nothing else.

- Evelyn Ashford

Work, Product, My Own, Muscles

The fastest way to get me to go out and do something is to tell me no way I can do it.

- Evelyn Ashford

Me, Tell, Get, Fastest

I can't run forever. I decided to go back to school for my degree, because I know now there's more to life than track.

- Evelyn Ashford

Degree, Go, More, Track

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