Quincy Wilson is Set to Become the Youngest Male U.S. Olympian in Track and Field History
In a remarkable feat that has sent waves of excitement through the Bullis community and the world of sports at large, Quincy Wilson, 16, became the youngest male U.S. track and field athlete to be selected for the Olympic team. The sprinting phenom from Bullis' class of 2026 will have a chance to compete in the men's 4x400-meter relay at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Quincy's journey to the Olympic team has been characterized by an unwavering pursuit of excellence and breakthrough performances. At the U.S. Olympic Trials held in Eugene, Oregon, Quincy delivered a historic performance, securing his place on the team with a sixth-place finish in the 400-meter final, clocking an impressive 44.94 seconds. This was followed by his record-breaking performances earlier in the trials, where he first shattered the under-18 world record in the first round with a time of 44.66 seconds—a record that stood for 42 years. He then bested his own time, marking a new world record of 44.59 seconds in his seminal heat, securing his spot in the final.
Quincy, who recently concluded his sophomore year at Bullis, has broken numerous records as a member of the renowned Bullis Track and Field team, led by two-time National Coach of the Year, Joe Lee. In the week before the U.S. Team Trials, Quincy set a 400-meter meet record at the New Balance Nationals in Philadelphia, securing a national championship and All-American status while also anchoring Bullis' 4x400 relay team to win another national title. At the New Balance Nationals Indoor meet in March, Quincy captured the high school indoor 400-meter record with a time of 45.76 seconds and anchored Bullis' 4x400 team, helping to surpass their own national record with a time of 3:11.87 seconds.
As Quincy prepares to represent the United States in the world's biggest sporting arena, he carries with him the hopes and pride of everyone who has been part of his journey. It's already clear that Quincy Wilson’s impact will extend far beyond the 44 seconds it takes him to run around the track; he's inspiring future generations of athletes to set their sights high and push beyond limits.
Outside of his athletic prowess, Quincy has already left an indelible mark on the school's community. He is celebrated for his leadership, character, and academic achievements, embodying the ethos of the Bullis community. Quincy has received some of the most prestigious honors at Bullis, including the freshman Manuel José Baca, Jr. Joy of Living Award and the sophomore Head of Upper School Award. He is also an honor roll student, demonstrating his influence extends beyond the track. Quincy's humble nature, thoughtful insights, and genuine camaraderie have made him a guiding light within the school community.
Quincy, you are seen as a student, leader, athlete, artist, explorer, and, most importantly, as a true friend. Your humility, insight, and reflective conversations with peers are seen as a guiding light in our community. Robert Pollicino, Head of Upper School
In reflecting on Wilson's accomplishments at the U.S. Trials, Bullis' Head of School, Christian Sullivan, said, "We are immensely proud of Quincy. What he accomplished at the U.S. Team Trials was thrilling for our entire community to watch as we cheered him on. His poise, sportsmanship, and ability to perform under pressure reflect who he is at Bullis every day. In addition to being a phenomenal athlete, he is a consummate scholar who encourages all his classmates to strive to be their best. What you saw at the Team Trials when Quincy was interviewed in front of a national audience is who he always is—humble, positive, and grateful. We see big things in every aspect of Quincy's future, and we're beyond proud to see him represent our country in Paris."
The anticipation for Quincy's performance at the Paris Games is palpable, not just among his coaches and teammates but throughout the Bullis community and beyond. Coach Lee will continue to support Quincy on his road to Paris, serving as both coach and mentor. The Bullis Track and Field program has flourished under Lee's direction. In his 11 years at the school, his teams have won 13 conference championships and produced stars who have earned numerous accolades at local, state, and national levels while competing against the most talented athletes in the country and beyond. Known for maximizing his athletes' potential through keen attention to detail, hard work, and positivity, Lee has prepared runners, throwers, and jumpers to compete at the highest levels of NCAA track and field.
Amidst the excitement for Wilson's Olympic debut, Bullis was well-represented at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials, with several alumni showcasing their talents, including Masai Russell '18. Masai is also heading to Paris to compete in the 100m hurdles after securing first place in the final round with an impressive time of 12.25. Her achievement not only marks the world's fastest time of the year but also breaks Gail Devers' 24-year-old meet record.
We are incredibly proud of and congratulate Bullis athletes Quincy Wilson '26, Masai Russell '18, Leah Phillips '20, and Ryan Willie '20, who competed in the U.S. Olympic Trials. As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, we wish Bullis Olympians Quincy and Masai the best of luck! We will be cheering for and supporting them as they reach for the stars and demonstrate their athleticism and hard work on the grandest stage in sports.
Photo credit: (Justin Britton / Citius Mag)
Video credit: Peacock / NBC