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My duty to make my dreams a reality
Debbie Ferguson won a silver medal at the 1996 Olympics as part of the Bahamas' 400-meter relay team. She enjoyed a record-setting collegiate career at the University of Georgia where she was a 19-time All-American and a four-time NCAA champion and broke Gwen Torrence's school records in the 100 and 200 meters. Debbie is now training for Sydney, where she plans to compete in the 400 relay, 100 and 200 meters. Check out her diary every two weeks on CNNSI.com.
July 9, 2000
Once again, welcome to Debbie's world where all things are possible through Christ. Well, I am back in Athens, Georgia, doing some last minute valuable preparation for the Bahamian Olympic trials. I am glad to be back and ready to continue training for my Sydney 2000 Quest. Thanks to everyone who has been reading my diary and asking the many interesting questions. To sum up my visit to Europe in one word, I would say "FANTASTIC." Thus far I remain 5-0 in the 200 meters and tied for the fastest time in the world. Thus, I am very pleased. As for the 100 meters, I endeavor to succeed. The 100 is more of a challenge for me -- No. 1 because for the past two years I came close to my personal best, but I haven't surpassed it as yet. And No. 2, I believe that I can run a faster time than 10.97. We (Coach Elliott and I) need to continue working on a few technical aspects, and since this is "Debbie's World" I believe it is only a matter of time before we accomplish this. Thus far, I ran 11.01 in the 100 and 22.43 in the 200. I will press on because it is my duty to make my dreams a reality. To anyone who has ever dreamed, stay focused on your dreams and continue to work hard towards your them. It is only a matter of time! Remember, now is the time, seize the moment before the opportunity passes and becomes yesterday's I could have. Remember you have choices, so make the positive choice. Until then, peace, happiness and love. I would like to pause for the cause and answer a few questions that were sent to me. I promise to answer all the questions sent to me, so hang in and give me some time. Thank you!
What inspires you to continue to be successful? And if you weren't an
athlete, what would you be?
Well, Carole, There are several factors that inspire me to be successful. The most important is the POSITIVE little Debbie on the inside and the Good Man above. He wants me to be successful and his will shall be done. The same applies for you. My parents, godparents, teachers, coaches and friends also play a very vital role. These individuals were POSITIVE for me and that is very important. If I wasn't an athlete, I would be what the Lord wants me to be. My ultimate goal is to become a pediatrician. With Christ, all things are possible.
Debbie, I've watched your incredible career throughout your four years at UGA, and I was wondering what/who influenced you to become a track athlete?
Well, Jermaine, how are you doing? In the beginning in elementary school, track was an extracurricular activity for me. It was something to keep me busy and out of trouble. There are several individuals responsible; however, there are two in particular. My elementary P.E. teacher, Ms. Andrea Lockhart, and my high school coach, Mr. Frank Rahming. They saw my talent, not seeing where I am now, and persuaded me to pursue athletics. My mother played a very important role. As for you, good luck for your future and always do the right things, no matter what.
What are your goals after competitions?
Hey, Mr. Bostwick, a pleasant day to you, sir. I think I owe you a dress shirt. Ha ha ha! Well, to be honest I would like to be a pediatrician. It is very difficult to concentrate on both goals right now, however, I will pursue track for now and try to seize the opportunity to attend medical school eventually. As the saying goes, better late than never. It is all possible in DEBBIE'S WORLD through CHRIST.
-- Debbie
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