CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte teenager is in Paris as a member of Team USA in the Olympics.
“It’s something I’ve dreamed of for a long time, going to trials ... and making it to the Olympics," 19-year-old Kaylyn Brown told WCNC Charlotte.
As a teenager, the 2023 Mallard Creek High School graduate has already run down her two biggest dreams: She ran at the U.S. Track and Field trials, and then, she was selected for the U.S. Olympic team.
“It’s something that I’ve always thought about," she said. "I started running when I was three. When I was five years old, I used to tell my teachers, 'Hey I want to go to the Olympics,' and they said, 'Ok you can go!' So it’s been a long time, it’s been a long dream.”
After a fourth-place finish in the 400 at the Trials, Brown was placed in the Olympics relay pool, meaning she might get the chance to compete in Paris.
Brown just finished a sensational freshman season at the University of Arkansas. She won the silver medal in the NCAA finals, and broke a 33-year-old record in the 400m for 19-year-olds, running it in 49.13 seconds.
“That’s amazing to know that I’m the fastest 19-year-old in the 400," she said. "I still haven’t wrapped my mind around it, but it’s been amazing.”
And now she's ready for an amazing experience.
“This will be my first time in Paris. I’m very excited," Brown said. "I love traveling, so I’m super excited.”
Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.