Allyson Felix has already accomplished a lot at a young age. During her teens she was labeled the fastest girl on the planet. As a Christian athlete, she has set some very high goals, such as winning multiple gold medals at the Beijing Summer Olympics. Yet, there's another finish line Allyson has her eyes set on in this life, and therefore, becoming more Christ-like is a daily goal. Growing up in a strong Christian home with a pastor as a father, Allyson is not afraid to stand up for her faith, which she says is the most important aspect of her life.
Sport: Track & Field
Date of Birth: November 18, 1985
Hometown: Los Angeles, California
Church Affiliation: Non-Denominational, Christian
More: Allyson's Official Website
Interview with Christian Athlete Allyson Felix
Briefly explain how and when you became a Christian:
I grew up in a Christian home with amazing parents. My family was very involved in our church and they made sure I had a strong upbringing that was centered on God. I became a Christian at a very young age, around 6 years old. My knowledge about God grew as I did and my walk with God eventually became much stronger as I got older.
Do you attend church?
Yes, I attend church every Sunday that I am at home. When I travel I take sermons from various pastors to listen to while I'm on the road.
Do you read the Bible regularly?
Yes, I go through different Bible studies so that I am constantly challenging myself to grow in my relationship with God.
Do you have a life verse from the Bible?
I have a lot of different verses that inspire my life. Philippians 1:21 is very special to me because it helps to keep my life centered. In every situation in my life I want to be able to say, "For me to live is Christ ... and nothing else, and to die is gain." It really keeps life in perspective for me and encourages me to make sure my priorities are straight.
How does your faith influence you as an athletic competitor?
My faith inspires me so much. It is the very reason that I run. I feel that my running is completely a gift from God and it is my
responsibility to use it to glorify him. My faith also helps me not be consumed with winning, but to see the big picture and what life is
really all about.
Do you ever face difficult challenges because of your stand for Christ?
I have not experienced any great persecution for my faith. Some people find it hard to understand, but I have been very blessed that I
haven't encountered great challenges so far.
Do you have a favorite Christian author?
I really enjoy Cynthia Heald's books. I have done a number of her Bible studies and read her books and I find them very practical and beneficial.
Do you have a favorite Christian music artist?
I have a lot of Christian artists that I enjoy listening to. Some of my favorites are Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary and Donnie McClurkin.
Their music is so "relatable" and inspiring.
Who would you name as a personal hero of the faith?
Without a doubt, my parents. They are just amazing individuals. I could not ask for better role models in my life. I admire them so
much because they are real people yet they live such godly lives. They have countless responsibilities and hectic schedules, but they
know what their life is all about, and they have a passion for sharing their faith and making a difference in our community.
What is the most important life-lesson you have learned?
The most important lesson that I have learned is to trust God in every circumstance. Lots of times we go through different trials and
following God's plan seems like it doesn't make any sense at all. God is always in control and he will never leave us. We can depend on
him. So I have learned that I never know best and that I should always trust in God.
Is there any other message you would like to say to readers?
I would just like to ask for your prayers as I train for Beijing. It would mean so much if you could pray that I am able to share my faith with the world and affect as many people as possible.
• Check out this short trailer for Struggle and Triumph, a 26-minute, inspiring Christian film featuring 6 Olympic athletes, including Allyson Felix. The DVD is designed for outreach and evangelism ministry, and has been translated into 36 languages. It can be purchased with the Jesus Film or by itself.
