TICKET PUNCHED! Sample makes the final 28-man roster for the 2024 Paris Paralympics! He will be running in the 400-meter dash.
July 21, 2024 | Men’s Track and Field | bucknellbison.com
Miramar, Florida- Bucknell Class of 2024 graduate Rayven Sample earned a slot on the 28-man Team USA roster for the 2024 Paris Paralympics as announced Sunday morning, July 21st. Sample will compete in the 400-meter dash. The 2024 Paralympics start August 28th and run through September 8th.
Team USA Release
“Making the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games roster was never guaranteed,” said Sample. “It took one of my career’s best races to get this opportunity and I’m confident there is more to come in a month. Last night was stressful as the difficulty of making this team was one of if not the hardest there’s ever been. It was a hard night to sleep as I kept dreaming of hearing my name called at the selection announcement. I am proud to be selected for my second Paralympic Games with my eyes set on officially taking my classification’s world record and battling for a medal. It was a great weekend to be a Bison.”
The selection marks the second time Sample will represent America in the international competition. He previously wore the Red, White & Blue in the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics where he finished eighth in the 400-meter dash.
Bucknell’s head coach Kevin Donner was overjoyed about the announcement. “Making Team USA is a huge accomplishment that means so much for Rayven and our program. He essentially put his life on hold after graduation so he could continue to train with Coach Alexander and Coach Shirk (strength & conditioning) for this opportunity. It was worth it. He seems to be peaking well as he ran his season best in the 400-meters. I believe he will continue that trend in Paris.”
The gamble paid off in spades. Sample sealed his selection when he placed first in the T45-47 400-meter dash. The runner blitzed to his best outdoor time (49.46) in nearly two years of competition. His burst in the final 50 meters ensured the victory and clinched the spot. It was the first time he broke the 50-second mark since the 2023 IC4A Outdoor Championships.
Bucknell’s sprints coach and fellow alum Richard Alexander accompanied Sample to the event. “I’m very happy for Rayven. His work has been incredible over the last few weeks and the past four years. To get a second opportunity to represent Team USA at the Paralympics is amazing. I could not be prouder of him.”
The 400-meter dash is currently scheduled for September 6th at the Paris Paralympics. More information will be forthcoming and Bison fans can follow Sample’s Paralympic journey via Bucknell Track & Field’s social media accounts and the Bucknell Athletics website.
Words from Rayven:
“A wise man once said, if you have enough energy to talk to me after you cross the line, you’re not doing it right.”
The 2024 US Paralympic Team trials still don’t feel real, even after a week to reflect. Two months ago I was standing at the crossroads of my career, at that point Id been underperforming for two years straight and struggling to see a return to being fast. I made the decision to give myself on emore chance and began dedicating all of my focus on bringing back the athlete that I knew I was. Slowly, glimpses of great things started popping up in practice and it all culminated in performing best when it mattered most. A 1 second season best and 4th career best time to run 400m in 49.46 seconds.
Thank you Coach A (@coachalexjr) and Coach Shirk for helping to make it all possible. The work isn’t done and I’m sexcited to be heading back to Lewisburg for 3 more weeks to finish up last minute preparations before Paris 2024! Time to finally become the official T45 400m World Record holder.
Faster than 49.21.”
Rayven is the son of Elizabeth John from Ohi:yo’ and the late Thomas Sample.
His family would like to say Nya:wëh to the community, who have been so generous in helping them get to Paris to watch Rayven participate in the 2024 Paralympic games. “Your support has been tremendous, and we thank you ALL for that”, said Elizabeth John. If you’re interested in donating to help them on their way to support Rayven & Team USA, see info below. Ja:göh Rayven!
VENMO: @Elizabeth-John-1725
CASHAPP: $ElizabethEJohn
PAYPAL: @ElizabethJohn1725
