Cover story from the Spring 2014 issue of TrackNation magazine. For more information on TrackNation, visit http://www.tracknation.com
Even though Doc Patton retired from competitive racing in November 2013, he is certainly not done with track.
The sprinter, who earned two World Championship gold medals in the 400-meter relay, as well as a pair of Olympic silvers in the same event, was still making noise on the straightaway in 2013 at the
advanced (by track standards) age of 35. His 6.50 winning time for the 60-meter dash at the Millrose Games earned Patton a world record in the event for athletes over 35. Months later, his 9.75 (wind-aided) time in the Texas Relays 100-meters would serve as the sixth fastest clocking for the event under any conditions.
But, after an unsatisfying 2012 campaign, Patton had decided that 2013 would be his final year of competition. He also made the decision to rededicate himself to the sport which had served as his livelihood for the past ten years.
Reflecting on his final season, Patton admits, “it was very, very bittersweet. And more bitter than sweet.”
As far as sprinting again, he says, “as far as I know, I’m done.”
But he’s not done with track yet.
(continued)
Even though Doc Patton retired from competitive racing in November 2013, he is certainly not done with track.
The sprinter, who earned two World Championship gold medals in the 400-meter relay, as well as a pair of Olympic silvers in the same event, was still making noise on the straightaway in 2013 at the
 |
| Darvis "Doc" Patton gets ready to hit the tape first. Since recently retiring, he will now run track clinics and head up the new TrackNation Dallas venture, the first city of the TN movement. |
But, after an unsatisfying 2012 campaign, Patton had decided that 2013 would be his final year of competition. He also made the decision to rededicate himself to the sport which had served as his livelihood for the past ten years.
Reflecting on his final season, Patton admits, “it was very, very bittersweet. And more bitter than sweet.”
As far as sprinting again, he says, “as far as I know, I’m done.”
But he’s not done with track yet.
(continued)
To view the rest of this article, turn to page 22 of this TrackNation magazine cover story at http://tracknation.com/trackside5
(above) At 35 years old, Patton blazes a 9.75 in the 100 meters at the Texas Relays in 2013
No comments:
Post a Comment