Shameka Marshall, an Elite Athlete Grantee Biography

SHAMEKA YUANICE MARSHALL

HOMETOWN: QUINTON, NJ
SCHOOL: RUTGERS UNIVERSITY-NEW BRUNSWICK
EVENT: LONG JUMP, 100M HURDLES
NICKNAMES: MEKA & MEEK

Career Highlights: 7th 2008 Olympic Trials; 2nd 2008 USA Indoor Championships; 2007 USA NACAC Team Gold Medal- LJ, El Salvador; 2007 NACAC 4X100 Silver Medalist; 2006 ECAC Outstanding Indoor & Outdoor Athlete; 2 Time All-American

CLICK HERE FOR SHAMEKA'S DETAILED PERFORMANCE INFORMATION AND PERSONAL WEBSITE.

In Meka's words:

"I'm grateful for the USATF Foundation which has been a major help to me. They have literally enabled me to pay for rent, have a healthy diet and attend competitions near and far. Without the help of individuals and supporters like them, this journey would be greatly different. That being said, I leave with a simple, thanks."

The most interesting thing to me is how many in the track world do not know that I am a singer at heart. Since age 4, I have been singing with two of my many sisters (there are six of us in fact). When I am not so busy training, I make time to write and learn the acoustic guitar. My entire family is full of skilled singers and musicians, from my Dad's bass and acoustic guitar to my Mom's heart-felt vocal tones. it's just "in the genes," as they say!

Speaking of family, we always have a good time together. We're bound to laugh at least a thousand times before we go our separate ways. A merry heart does good like a medicine, and anyone who hangs with us will be sure to get their dose!

I'm often asked, "why did I start running?" It's pretty simple really, because I have a gift for it. I'll keep going until the intense desire subsides. The journey has not been easy by any means, but I can't quit because there is more in me that needs to shine. So, the fire burns as I move forward to fulfill this wonderful gift I've been given.

THE SISTERS (LEFT-RIGHT & UP) SHONTA, KRYSTLE, ME, LUGENIA, SHAHRAH, NICOLE

Thanks,

Shameka Marshall, Long Jump, 100m Hurdles

CLICK HERE FOR SHAMEKA'S DETAILED PERFORMANCE INFORMATION.

Please contact Tom Jackovic, Executive Director, USATF Foundation at (412) 398-2484 for additional information about Elite Athlete support programs.