From Heart Surgery to Victory: How a University of Houston Track Star Races Toward a National Title

Jamar Marshall Jr. is on the brink of an exciting moment. He’s aiming for the national title in the 100-meter hurdles, but it wasn’t long ago that he doubted whether he could even run.

“I wasn’t sure what God had in store for me,” he shared. “I just held onto faith, prayed, and leaned on my family and coaches.”

Things didn’t work out as he hoped after transferring from the University of Houston. He found himself without a team and facing a tough time, needing stability in his life. "It was a rough two years. I had little money and stayed with a friend," he recalled.

To make matters worse, doctors diagnosed him with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, which causes fast and irregular heartbeats. “It was hard mentally. I wondered if I could ever be the same Jamar everyone used to know.”

Despite these challenges, Jamar’s determination never wavered. He previously finished fifth at the 2021 NCAA Championships and was thrilled to return to the UH track program, thanks to coach Carl Lewis. “His enthusiasm is contagious. He’s a hard worker and truly wants to excel,” Lewis noted.

Now, as the UH record holder in the 110 hurdles and the Big 12 champion, Jamar is ready for the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Oregon. “I don’t always know where I stand during the race. It feels like I black out, but it’s amazing,” he explained.

Confidence is key for him. “We’ve been putting on a show all season. I hope everyone tunes in to watch.”

Jamar is set to compete in the national semifinals, aiming for a spot in the finals.

In 2021, only 41% of athletes reported feeling confident in their abilities, according to a recent survey by the National Collegiate Athletic Association. Jamar’s story serves as a reminder that determination and faith can overcome even the toughest obstacles.

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