The 800 meters is often called the “killer event”—too long to sprint all out, too short to pace comfortably. But for Edose Ibadin, it’s the perfect blend of speed, strategy, and mental toughness. What started as a simple extracurricular to help bolster college applications quickly turned into a defining pursuit. Just two weeks into training, he was placed in the 800, and he hasn’t looked back since. From navigating tight packs to powering through race-pace intervals, Edose has embraced every challenge the two-lap test brings. With a blazing personal best of 1:44.65 and a mindset rooted in gratitude and focus, he continues to rise as a force in middle-distance running.

What events do you specialize in, and which one do you enjoy the most?
800m

How did you get started in track and field, and what drew you to your specific events?
I started running because it was just an extracurricular activity that I could do to help with my college applications. My coach put me in the 800m after just two weeks of running.

What’s a typical training week like for you in terms of sprint/hurdle/field event workouts?
Typically, I do one speed session, one endurance session, and one speed endurance session per week. I also cross train a lot, as well as do recovery runs and long runs.

What’s the most challenging part of your event, and how do you train to overcome it?
The most challenging part is the fast pace while running next to people. We don’t get to stay in our own lanes. I train by running behind people, leading reps, and being in the back of a pack. That helps me get used to being in any kind of position.

What’s your toughest workout or training session, and how do you mentally get through it?
Toughest session is definitely either broken 800s with short rest or three hard 400s at race pace or better.

Do you have a favorite drill or technique that’s helped you improve?
I love the fast leg drill.

Describe your pre-race or pre-event routine. Any superstitions or must-haves?
I always warm up in long sleeves and pants. I’ll never come to the track in shorts before the race.

How do you handle nerves or pressure before a big meet?
By reminding myself that there’s an opportunity to perform well. I also try my best to have an attitude of gratitude.

What has been your most memorable performance so far and why?
My most memorable performance would have to be when I ran my PB of 1:44.65. I wasn’t focused on the time at all. I just focused on winning the race, and the time came as a result of that.

Who do you look up to in your sport, whether locally or professionally?
I looked up to David Rudisha a lot because he’s the world record holder. I’m also inspired by Dawn Harper-Nelson’s story of how she won the Olympics back in 2008.

What’s one technical aspect of your event you’re really focused on improving right now?
I am really focused on improving the middle part of my race—the second and third 200.

How important is mental preparation in your events, and how do you work on it?
Mental preparation is extremely important. I usually visualize, and I work on my self-talk. What I say to myself matters a lot.

Do you approach your events more with strategy or instinct? Why?
It’s a mix of both. It’s good to have a plan, but I have to sometimes adapt on the fly.

What’s your favorite track or field venue to compete at and why?
George Mason University because I’ve run a lot of PRs there.

What kind of music or motivation gets you hyped before competing?
I like listening to all kinds of music, from hip-hop, R&B, dance, drum and bass, to techno. My warm-up playlist has a wide variety of genres.

How do your teammates or training group influence your performance?
My teammates push me every day to be my best. I’ve had so much help from them over the years.

What’s your go-to recovery routine after a meet or heavy practice?
Normatec boots, sauna, and an Epsom salt bath.

How do you balance school, life, and training? Any tips?
Best way to balance is to focus on what’s in front of you and be fully present. Be where your feet are.

Outside of track and field, what are your interests or hobbies?
I enjoy reading, gaming, hanging with friends, swimming, watching movies, and sleeping.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your event?
I would tell them to embrace the journey. Make sure they’re hitting all aspects of the 800—both the speed side and the endurance side. Be patient with yourself and at the same time don’t limit yourself in what you can do.

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