Sha’Carri Richardson champions next generation at historic women’s games

Sha'Carri Richardson is more than just a sprint queen with flambuoyant personality on the track. She is a mentor off it and she is using her voice to inspire young athletes, choosing the 50th anniversary of the Colgate Women’s Games as the stage for her powerful message.

The Paris Olympics 100m silver medallist recently took to Instagram to share a photo of herself at the event during her high school days, with her spikes around her neck and wearing a gold medal.

In her post, Richardson wrote: "The track has been a place where I can show up as myself. It reinforced what I’ve always known to be true, which is to work hard, stay true, and rise together.

"Proud to celebrate 50 years of the Colgate Women’s Games, where mentorship, confidence, and community help the next generation shine on and off the track. ✨"

The 2023 world champion credits the sport for teaching her invaluable lessons about leadership, giving back, and staying true to her identity. These lessons fuel her commitment to supporting up-and-coming athletes.

"I want them to know they can dream big, move with purpose and never compromise their truth to fit in," Richardson stated.

Founded in Brooklyn in 1974 by coach Fred Thompson with support from the Colgate-Palmolive Company, the Colgate Women’s Games is the longest-running indoor track and field series for girls and women in the United States.

The event, which offers free participation, has awarded over 100 educational scholarships annually and has been a launching pad for dozens of Olympians and national champions.

By partnering with the Colgate Women’s Games and lending her influence to platforms like F1 and Athlos, Richardson continues to redefine leadership beyond the finish line.