Amir Joe of Spring Valley talks with MileSplit SC before Bob Jenkins SCTCCCA Coaches Classic. Joe has the top ranking in the 110-meter hurdles.
"I take on challenges with curiosity and an open mind, seeing them as chances to grow and learn. Whether it's a regular task or a tough challenge, I tackle it with dedication and enthusiasm. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, overcome obstacles, and succeed." - Amir Joe
How and when did you get involved in track and field?
I got involved in track and field in 2016. I had been asking my parents to let me play football, but neither of them were for that idea, so they just signed me up for track at the recreational center.
How do you look at having one of the top high hurdles rankings?
I look at it as the work that's been put in behind the scenes finally showing. I've always had the confidence that I could be here, so I feel like that this is where I am supposed to be.
I got involved in track and field in 2016. I had been asking my parents to let me play football, but neither of them were for that idea, so they just signed me up for track at the recreational center.
How do you look at having one of the top high hurdles rankings?
I look at it as the work that's been put in behind the scenes finally showing. I've always had the confidence that I could be here, so I feel like that this is where I am supposed to be.
Watch 2024 All American Track Classic races
How would you rate your season so far?
I would rate it as a light nine. I've been healthy for most of the season, and I've been winning a lot, so I couldn't ask for much more.
What will your daily routine be like as we are near championship season?
Nearing championship season, I will start focusing on hurdle mechanics and footspeed. I've already started to prioritize rest and recovery to ensure I can compete in every meet at my best, as well as monitoring my diet and hydration.
What do you hope to have achieve at SCTCCCA Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic Elite Friday?
My goal for years now, has been to win my event at this meet, so that's what I want to do. I'm not focused on a set time, I just want to compete.
What was preseason practice like leading up to the season?
A week of preseason practice consisted of 1-2 days of hard conditioning, 1-2 days of sprinting/running mechanics and 1-3 days of hurdling.
What was the All American Classic experience like for you this year?
I loved the experience, I loved the competition and the atmosphere. The opportunity to compete alongside talented athletes such as myself was just memorable. If I could do it again I would.
What was preseason practice like leading up to the season?
A week of preseason practice consisted of 1-2 days of hard conditioning, 1-2 days of sprinting/running mechanics and 1-3 days of hurdling.
What was the All American Classic experience like for you this year?
I loved the experience, I loved the competition and the atmosphere. The opportunity to compete alongside talented athletes such as myself was just memorable. If I could do it again I would.
Watch the 2023 SCHSL 5A State Track and Field Championship races
My main goals for the rest of my senior season are to stay healthy and win the state championship in the 110-meter hurdles.
What is your motivation?
My motivation comes from within. I am driven my by own desire to succeed and achieve greatness. I am constantly pushing myself to be better than I was yesterday, striving for excellence in everything I do.
How do you look at challenges?
I take on challenges with curiosity and an open mind, seeing them as chances to grow and learn. Whether it's a regular task or a tough challenge, I tackle it with dedication and enthusiasm. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn, overcome obstacles, and succeed.
What other hobbies do you have?
I'm into all sports and love abstract art and music. Whether it's playing basketball, painting, or strumming a ukulele , I'm all about having a good time and getting creative.
What is your meet-day routine?
On meet days, I kick things off with a breakfast staple: salmon. Music is a must, with Drake as my go-to choice to set the mood. Once I arrive at the track, I take a moment to disconnect from everything, clearing my mind.
What's a weekday practice like for you / entire week?
Mondays typically consist of a hard speed endurance workout. Tuesday's are usually a pre-meet day. Wednesday is usually competition day. Thursday varies from being a complete rest day consisting of only a warm up or being a light day in the weight room. Fridays without a competition day following consist of a speed or speed endurance workout and if it does have a competition day following then another pre-meet day.
What do you want to say to your supporters?
I appreciate you all dearly and I would not be here without the support of you all!
What would you like to do in the future?
I would like to compete in college and I would also like to major in engineering to pursue being an automobile engineer.
Do you have any family members in the sport?
I have a cousin - Jameer Williams - also on Spring Valley's team who is one of our 6'4 high jumpers.
Any tips for younger athletes?
Trust in everything your coaches say and to always prioritize health.
What's a memory you have of the sport with the Spring Valley team?
The most memorable memory is winning back to back SCHSL AAAAA state championships at the school.
What other sports did or do you play?
I played basketball throughout the entirety of middle school and also played baseball up until middle school.
Are we missing anything?
No, but I appreciate the interview.