Coach Richard Smith

​​Richard grew up in Reston, Virginia, right outside Washington, DC. Richard moved to Charlotte, NC January 2014. Richard has spent ten years in the fitness industry, holding positions as an Elite Personal Trainer, Fitness Director, General Manager, and Regional Director. He was an All-State and All-American high school track and field athlete at South Lakes High School, also home to American Mile record holder Alan Webb. While at South Lakes, Richard won 10 state Track and Field titles ranging from 800-meter run to cross country, along with 10 National Titles and 1 National record. Richard accepted a full athletic scholarship to Auburn University in 2002, signing a professional track and field contract with Nike, Inc. Richard then continued his education at Portland State University while running for Nike in Portland, Oregon. He was part of the Nike Oregon Project, headed by Marathon legend Alberto Salazar. He’s traveled worldwide and was ranked in the Top 10 fastest 800-meter runners in the United States in 2005, qualifying for the 2002 World Championships, 2004 and 2008 Olympic Trials, and 2007 Five Nations World Championships.

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Personal Records

PR's
400 Meters 46.9split 
500 Meters 1:03.88
800 Meters 1:46.45
1000 Meters 2:28.18
1500 Meters 3:47.10
1600 Meters 4:03.68 c
Mile- 4:05.09
5K- 15:33

Affiliations/Certifications/Awards 
National Council for certified Personal Trainers- CPT
National Academy of Sport Medicine- CPT, CES, FNS
United States Track and Field Level 1 Coach
Olympics Trials Qualifier
World Championship Qualifier
USA Track and Field Title Holder
USA Track and Field Record Holder
Nike Inc. Sponsored Athlete (Nike Oregon Project)
United States Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award
All-American Athlete

Coach's Vision

Richard's vision is to spread the joy of running! Whether you are a competitive high school, college, elite runner or just your everyday jogger wanting to tone up for the summer, Richard has the recipes for success!

Head Coach: Richard Smith 
Email: Richard@stridefast.com