Post may include affiliate links, which may earn us a commission
As the buzz for the 2024 Paris Olympics builds, our friend and inspiring athlete Nico Young has been hitting new milestones. On June 21, 2024, in Eugene, Oregon, Nico secured his spot on Team USA by finishing third in the men’s 10,000 meters at the U.S. Olympic trials, clocking a remarkable 27:52.40. This achievement not only marks his first Olympic appearance but also cements his place in history as the first openly gay male U.S. track and field athlete to qualify for the Olympics, according to OutSports.
Nico, who publicly came out as gay in 2022, has been an inspiration both on and off the track. His journey from a standout high school athlete in Southern California to a collegiate record-setter at Northern Arizona University has been marked by resilience and authenticity. Nico’s decision to live openly has resonated deeply within the LGBTQ+ community, offering a beacon of hope and representation. As he shared, hearing from others about the impact of his visibility is profoundly meaningful, reinforcing the importance of representation in sports.
“I am living proof that it is not a choice,” Young wrote in his coming out post on Instagram. “It is something I have always known and been aware of, but have kept silent out of fear of rejection. I have struggled to accept myself, but I am becoming more proud and happy with who I am.”
Currently training in Font-Romeu-Odeillo-Via, France, a favorite high-altitude spot for elite athletes, Nico is gearing up for the 10,000 meters in Paris on August 2. This opportunity is an exciting prospect for fans and fellow athletes alike, showcasing his versatility and dedication to his sport .
+Related: Gay Diver Tom Daley Tests “Anti-Sex” Beds at Paris Olympics
Beyond his athletic prowess, Nico has embraced new opportunities under the NCAA’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) rules, recently partnering with Adidas. This partnership highlights a broader acceptance and celebration of openly LGBTQ+ athletes in major sports brands, which is a significant shift from the past .
As Nico prepares to compete on one of the world’s biggest stages, his journey continues to inspire. His story is a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and the impact one individual can have on a global community. We’re all rooting for Nico and can’t wait to see him shine in Paris! 🌈🏃♂️
+Related: Jack Woolley to Paris Olympics for Ireland & His Boyfriend