Aaliyah McCormick: A Sprint Hurdling Prodigy’s Rise to Collegiate Stardom

Aaliyah McCormick, born on September 17, 2004, in San Diego, California, has emerged as one of the United States’ most promising hurdlers, blending explosive speed, technical precision, and resilience. From her record-shattering high school career to her ascent at the University of Oregon, McCormick’s journey epitomizes dedication and versatility in track and field.

Early Life and High School Dominance

McCormick’s athletic journey began at age nine, when her elementary school teachers noted her exceptional speed, prompting her mother to enroll her in track. At Scripps Ranch High School, she quickly became a multisport standout:

• CIF San Diego Section Titles: Secured back-to-back Division II 100m hurdles championships (2021, 2022) and a 100m title (2022)2.

• State Championships: Placed fifth in the 100m (11.71) and qualified for the 100m hurdles at the 2022 CIF State Meet, though a disqualification cut her hurdles run short13.

• School Records: Set marks in the 100m hurdles (13.46), 300m hurdles (42.77), and 4x100m relay (2019 state champions)113.

Her performances earned her recognition as the Southeast Missourian Track and Field Athlete of the Year and a commitment to the University of Oregon, chosen for its athletic and academic excellence2.

Collegiate Career at Oregon

Breakthrough Performances (2022–2025)

McCormick immediately impacted the Ducks’ program, showcasing versatility in sprints and hurdles:

• Indoor:

  • 60m Hurdles: Set a personal best of 7.91 at the 2025 NCAA Indoor Championships, finishing second69.

  • 200m: Clocked 24.57 indoors, demonstrating sprint versatility9.

• Outdoor:

  • 100m Hurdles: Won the 2023 USATF U20 title (13.02) and claimed fifth at the Pan American U20 Championships15. Improved her PB to 12.81 (+1.8) at the 2024 Mt. SAC Relays, tying Sasha Wallace for second all-time at Oregon815.

  • Pac-12 Honors: Named 2024 Women’s Track Athlete of the Week after her Mt. SAC performance, the sixth Duck to earn conference accolades that season15.

Big Ten Transition (2025)

Following conference realignment, McCormick thrived in the Big Ten:

• Indoor Champion: Won the 60m hurdles (7.97) at the 2025 Big Ten Indoor Championships318.

• Outdoor Dominance: Secured the top qualifying time (12.94) in the 100m hurdles at the Big Ten Outdoor Championships4.

Technical Mastery and Training

McCormick’s success stems from a blend of explosive starts and refined hurdle technique:

• Hurdle Rhythm: Maintains a consistent three-step pattern, honed through drills and film analysis.

• Speed Development: Trains with Oregon’s sprint group, achieving PBs of 7.51 in the 60m and 24.07 in the 200m9.

• Resilience: Overcame a 2023 injury that sidelined her during the NCAA Outdoor Championships, returning stronger in 202418.

Legacy and Future Trajectory

Collegiate Impact

• Program Rankings: Her 12.81 100m hurdles time ranks fifth nationally (2024) and second in Oregon history15.

• Academic Pursuits: Balances athletics with studies, exemplifying the student-athlete model1.

Professional Aspirations

McCormick aims to:

• Olympic Trials: Compete for a spot at the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

• Sub-12.50 Barrier: Target elite global standards in the 100m hurdles.

Off-Track Influence

• NIL Engagement: Partners with Opendorse for endorsements, offering shoutouts and appearances17.

• Social Media Advocacy: Uses Instagram (@aaliyahchante_) to inspire young athletes and share training insights12.

Conclusion

Aaliyah McCormick’s journey from San Diego’s tracks to NCAA podiums underscores her relentless drive and technical brilliance. As she continues redefining Oregon’s record books and eyeing Olympic glory, her story inspires the next generation of hurdlers. Follow her quest for greatness via her World Athletics profile and Oregon’s track updates.

Go Aaliyah!