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Track and Field Star Keni Harrison in Two-Piece Workout Gear is "Goals"

Harrison talks about competition, healthy habits, and the motivation behind her Olympic success.

Keni Harrison, an Olympic silver medalist in the 100-meter hurdles, has made a name for herself not only through her speed but also her resilience and determination. Recently, Harrison shared her friendship with fellow athlete Jenna Prandini in an Instagram collaboration with Athlos, saying, "She's a ride or die." Known for her fierce work ethic, Harrison credits her parents for instilling in her the values of hard work and perseverance. "To accomplish your goals, you have to work hard," she told TODAY. From her love of salmon to swimming and taking advice from her coach, Harrison's focus on discipline and balance has been key to her success both on and off the track.

1

She Works Hard

Keni Harrison/Instagram

Harrison has a strong work ethic. She revealed to TODAY that she got this attitude from her parents. "They live by example. They're hard working people and they taught me not to give up and to accomplish (your) goals you have to work hard. And so that's just something I took from them. I'm just so happy to be bringing home … a sliver."

2

She Loves Salmon

Harrison makes sure to eat healthy. She shared one of her favorite meals in an interview with Rehab 2 Perform. "[Salmon and vegetables] make a light and filling meal that helps me perform well at training or in competition. [It] makes me feel energized without feeling too heavy in my stomach." The Mayo Clinic states that salmon has a lot of health benefits. "Seafood in general, and salmon in particular, is a good choice for protein in the diet. If you can use salmon in place of a higher fat meat, that's even better. Salmon is probably best known for its omega-3 fatty acids. Called EPA and DHA, these fats may support heart health, brain function and healthy joints."

3

She's Competitive

Harrison is an extremely competitive person, and she tells World Athletics that this has helped her. "The best tip I've received is regardless of the level of the meet or competition, always be extremely competitive. This has been important to me as I am able to perform at a respectful standard consistently. As an athlete who takes pride in my effort and who appreciates the fans who come out to support us, it is important that they get the best of me."

4

She Listens To Advice

Harrison tells World Athletics that she makes sure to listen to advice that her coaches tell her. "I think it is always important to listen to your coaches as they are the ones equipped with the knowledge to assist us in reaping success. Post the US Olympic Trials [where Harrison finished sixth and missed out on a spot in the US team for Rio 2016] my coach [Edrick Floreal] was the one who inspired, pushed and encouraged me to train towards the world record. I listened and the rest, as they say, is history."

5

She Swims

Harrison likes to swim to keep herself in shape. She shares a lot of posts on Instagram of herself in the water. Harrison posted this set of photos of herself enjoying time in a hotel pool. In it, she wore a purple patterned swimsuit. She captioned the post, "The best color. Respectfully! 💜♍️🔮😈"

Anna Bechtel
Anna Bechtel is a freelance writer currently based in Hamden, CT. Read more
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