Special to the LPJ
HAMMOND, La. — Ruston’s Dallas Smith has quickly made a name for himself on the track at quite a young age.
Over the weekend of June 14th, the 11-year-old Ruston Elementary student found himself with a gold medal in the 800 meter at the AAU Region 11 Qualifier at Southeastern University, competing against top youth athletes in Louisiana and Mississippi.
His time of 2 minutes, 34.18 seconds in the 800m earned him not only the championship title but also a spot at the AAU Junior Olympic Games to be held from July 28 – Aug. 2, 2025, in Humble, Texas. He also finished second in the 1500m with a time of 5:37.98.
Dallas’s dad Trey knows a thing or two about track and field being the head coach at Ruston High — and he couldn’t be more proud of how his son is excelling.
“There are moments as a parent when your heart feels like it could burst with pride. This past weekend was one of those for me,” Smith said. “Watching Dallas push through every second on the track was nothing short of inspiring. He’s earned his spot in the AAU Junior Olympics, and I couldn’t be prouder of his determination, discipline, and drive. Summer track has provided him a tremendous confidence boost as we are preparing for the upcoming cross country season. I’m excited to see his progress in the races and seasons to come.”
Earlier this year, Smith won the Lincoln Parish Elementary Fitness Competition and competes for the Ruston Elementary Cross Country team for head coach Emilie Tomlin.
