Dallas Smith of Ruston, Louisiana, has established himself on the track at a very young age.
Competing against the best young athletes in Louisiana and Mississippi, the 11-year-old Ruston Elementary student won a gold medal in the 800 meters in the AAU Region 11 Qualifier held at Southeastern University over the weekend of June 14.
In addition to winning the championship, he secured a seat at the AAU Junior Olympic Games, which will take place in Humble, Texas, from July 28 to August 2, 2025, with a time of 2 minutes, 34.18 seconds in the 800 meters. With a time of 5:37.98, he also placed second in the 1500-meter race.
As the head coach at Ruston High, Dallas’ father, Trey, is well-versed in track and field, and he is extremely proud of his son’s achievements.
As a parent, there are times when you feel like your heart might explode with pride. According to Smith, this past weekend was one of those. It was truly inspiring to watch Dallas persevere through every moment on the track. I am so proud of his passion, dedication, and determination; he has earned his place in the AAU Junior Olympics. As we get ready for the approaching cross-country season, summer track has given him a huge boost in confidence. I’m eager to see his development in the upcoming races and seasons.
Smith, who plays for head coach Emilie Tomlin’s Ruston Elementary Cross Country team, won the Lincoln Parish Elementary Fitness Competition earlier this year.
