In the world of track and field, where every millisecond counts and every stride is a testament to determination, some athletes embody the spirit of resilience and excellence.

With the agility and determination of a champion, Zakiya (Kiya) Hill epitomizes the essence of student athleticism. Her journey through the lanes of the track has captivated audiences. As she propels herself forward, Kiya stands as an example of perseverance and dedication, proving that with passion and commitment, the finish line holds endless possibilities.

Kiya has been sprinting towards success since she was just nine years old, clocking in an impressive nine years of experience on the track. Her journey has led her to become a formidable force in the world of sprinting, with her eyes set firmly on breaking records and surpassing her personal bests.

With impressive times of 11.95 seconds in the 100m dash, 24.13 seconds in the 200m dash, and 55.30 seconds in the 400m, Kiya has already cemented her name among the elite sprinters of her generation. Her goal? To push herself even further, beat her own personal bests, and leave her mark on the record boards.

When asked about her advice for newcomers to the sport, Kiya’s perspective offers a refreshing take: “Just go out there and have fun, without taking it too serious[ly].” Her emphasis on the enjoyment of the sport highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy balance amidst the pressures of competition.

But Kiya’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Like any athlete, she has faced setbacks. Yet her unwavering belief in herself and her ability to trust the process sets her apart. She says, “Some strengths I have is believing in myself and trusting myself.”

Behind every great athlete is a coach who helps shape and guide their journey. For Kiya, that guiding force comes in the form of Coach Williams. Coach Williams emphasizes Kiya’s unwavering consistency and resilience. “She knows what it takes to be a champion,” said Williams.

“I love how she never changes her form and always looks relaxed. Even when she has a bad race, she keeps her form and doesn’t slow down,” track athlete Tai Fox said.
With years of dedication, Kiya has developed a deep understanding of the sport, allowing her to focus on improving her strengths and addressing her weaknesses. As she puts it, “To improve, I practice on my weaknesses, and recovery is a big part of it.”

As Kiya continues to chase her dreams on the track, her journey inspires all who witness her relentless pursuit of greatness at UCLA next year. With her unwavering dedication and steadfast belief in herself, there’s no doubt that Kiya is destined for even greater success in the world of track and field, and the Crusaders wish her the best through her college track and field journey at UCLA.