Imagine being an Olympic Gold Medalist like Lucinda Adams
- Karol Brown
- Mar 24
- 3 min read
Join me on Bold Brave TV Harriet Tubman Love In Actions, Monday, March 31, 25 for this inspiring interview.
Reconnecting with Inspiration: A Conversation with Lucinda Adams
Today, I feel incredibly blessed to reconnect with someone whose impact on my life has been profound: Lucinda Adams. During my high school years at Roosevelt High School, in Dayton, Ohio, she was not only my gym teacher but also the spirited leader of the cheerleading squad, a role that connected us on numerous memorable trips and experiences.
Lucinda’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Before her teaching career, she was a remarkable track star and an Olympic gold medalist. In 1960, she was part of the legendary relay team that included Wilma Rudolph, a name synonymous with excellence in athletics. Lucinda was the one who passed the baton to Wilma, leading to a victorious finish that still resonates today.
Reflecting on our time together at Roosevelt, Lucinda expressed her gratitude for being a part of our lives, saying, “It’s such a blessing to have been at Roosevelt in those days." The closure of the school brought a wave of sadness, yet the bonds created there live on through our shared memories.
Lucinda’s passion for mentoring the youth shines through as she shares her experiences as an Olympian. “It takes a lot of hard work to achieve greatness,” she says. “Having a dream and the support of a community is crucial for success.” This message rings true now more than ever; we must encourage young people to pursue their aspirations and understand the strength of community support.
As we discussed the importance of mentorship, Lucinda emphasized that both girls and boys need to realize their potential and pour effort into their passions. She reminds us that everyone possesses unique, God-given talents meant to uplift not only themselves but also those around them. Lucinda's commitment to empowering youth, especially young women, underscores the importance of taking pride in one's abilities and striving for excellence.
Through her current work at her church in West Palm Beach and her ongoing efforts to inspire young people, Lucinda continues to lead by example. Her words of wisdom resonate strongly with me: "As African Americans, we need to share our stories and the experiences that shaped who we are."
We touched on the challenges young athletes face today, particularly with the costs of participation in sports. Lucinda informed me of resources like the Boys and Girls Clubs and the YMCA that provide opportunities, emphasizing the importance of asking for help. “If there’s a will, there’s a way,” she insists, encouraging determination in the pursuit of one’s dreams.
When talking about generational wisdom, Lucinda highlighted figures like Harriet Tubman as more than just historical icons, showcasing their humanity and resilience. Her belief that self-love and faith are foundational to personal growth resonates throughout our conversation.
As we wrapped up, Lucinda shared a special surprise—a gift box filled with seeds, symbolizing growth and potential. “Just like flowers bloom from seeds, we too are meant to flourish and spread love,” she said, encapsulating her philosophy of nurturing talent and confidence in others.
Looking forward, Lucinda is excited about a potential movie project that may bring her inspirational story to a wider audience. As we continue to share our histories and uplift the next generation, I’m reminded of the enduring power of community, faith, and unwavering support.
This conversation serves as a beautiful reminder of how vital it is to connect with our past, celebrate our journeys, and inspire those who follow. I hope this message reaches young individuals everywhere, igniting their dreams and encouraging them to believe in themselves.
Thank you, Lucinda, for sharing your extraordinary story and for being a beacon of hope and inspiration. Together, let’s continue to uplift our communities and nurture the dreams of our youth.
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