Sakari Famous says she is forever grateful for the opportunity afforded to her by McNeese State University and the numerous success she achieved throughout a remarkable career in NCAA Division I competition.

Famous, 24, bowed out of college athletics after failing to secure a place in the final at last month’s NCAA Outdoor Track & Field East First Round in Lexington, Kentucky.

“I was super grateful to compete at the NCAA Regionals and got to attend with an amazing group of athletes on the team who also strived for greatness,” Famous told The Royal Gazette.

“The team was filled with seniors so it was our last moments enjoying the last time competing for our university together.

“I took in all that I could from the meet atmosphere because it would be the end of my collegiate career. However it only reminded me of the amazing accomplishments I was able to experience.

“I will forever be grateful for my team, my results and the opportunity to compete in my event.”

Famous went into her final event after winning a silver medal with a best jump of 1.82 metres in her previous outing at the Southland Conference Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Houston, Texas.

“It was a very great last Conference and was truly an amazing atmosphere,” she said.

“With the amount of energy the women’s side had we were so close to achieving Conference champion.

“But I couldn’t be more grateful for my experience with this team and the result I was able to put forward. I have to say that it was the best Conference competition I have ever competed in.

“My high jump team-mates did so amazing as well that I wanted to continue the energy they created on the competition.

“Even though I wasn’t able to get first place, nothing could compare to the amount of fun and positive emotions I felt. That’s all I wanted and I’m so glad I was able to enjoy that moment.

“Of course there were times where I had to take in that it was my last everything with this team. However, my focus on producing a great result had to remain and it will forever be a core memory.”

Famous, a former Junior Female Athlete of the Year award winner, has made a spectacular comeback this year after a serious back injury. She broke her own national and school record after clearing 1.81m during the last indoor season before securing an additional three titles and earning Southern Conference Athlete of the Week honours during an equally successful outdoor campaign.

The talented athlete attributes her successful comeback to a strong faith in God.

“I would say trusting in God’s plan and knowing that more success can come even if it doesn’t show at this moment,” she said.

“I have confidence that great things can eventually happen. I do look back on many ups and downs but it all led to something great in the end, and I have to be grateful for that.

“My collegiate career has taught me so much, allowed me to meet amazing people, helped me become who I am today and I’m truly happy with all I have experienced.”