TBT: Tyrese Cooper Defends Titles, Sweeps 200/400 At NBNO


(Photo by Nolan Jez)

Team Florida put the final stamp on a successful New Balance Nationals Outdoor with a total of six championships on the last day of competition. The star of the show was none other than Tyrese Cooper. Nearly a month after winning state titles in the 200 and 400, "Smoke" picked up national championships five and six. 


He came into the meet as the defending outdoor title holder in both events as well as the indoor champion, and didn't disappoint. Just THIRTY-FOUR minutes after winning the 400m dash in 45.89 he went head to head with fellow Floridian Anthony Schwartz, edging him out in 20.99s for first place. Just as impressive as the times was how long he had in between each race to accomplish that. Just THIRTY FOUR minutes.


"To win both titles in the same year is amazing because you really have to train hard in practice and run fast at the right time," Coach Darius Lawshea said. "We also had to stay injury free. Next up, we have USATF outdoors where he will be running the senior division 400m."

The first round starts Thursday and if he qualifies he will make the US team for the World Championships in London. Lawshea added that this weekend they will be chasing that 44 second mark racing against the pros.

"As long as he is mentally ready everything else will be a piece of cake," he said. "As his coach I'm there and we are going to speak positive into the universe. Through mind, body and soul we will accomplish all of his goals."