Ozioma Scott was born and raised in Guyana before moving to the Bahamas. She details her childhood with fond memories and blue skies. Her childhood also included an 8U championship on the track. Despite being a small island, this was clearly an indicator of greatness. She did not dedicate much focus towards track in high school and instead, was focusing on ways to pay for school. It just so happened that that avenue for Scott was the Howard track team, during the first year of Coach Oliver’s tenure. Timing is everything. Had Scott tried to walk-on to the team in say,2024, with her PR of 65 seconds, the chances of her making the roster would be slim to none. But she got to work that Fall, joining the 200/400 training group “G2”. They were notorious for their grueling workouts, but Scott had the will to stay. Not just stay, but thrive. Scott established herself as a mainstay on the 4x400 relay, running the 1st leg for nearly 5 years. In February of 2020 during Scott’s Junior year where she served as G2 captain, the relay stepped to a runner-up finish at conference. It was a marker of greatness to come. During the bulk of the pandemic, Scott was back home in the Bahamas. She returned during the 2021 “Covid season” to once again lead the 4x400 on their campaign. The program was making impressive strides, with more regional qualifiers than ever. Scott herself doubled up at regionals with the 400m open and relay. They ran their fastest all season, and took an 11th place finish into nationals. Scott gives her perspective of not being able to run at nationals due to a personal issue, the feelings associated, and how she took those feelings into her 5th and final year. Regardless, Scott and co. were all-Americans with an expectation to return in 21-22. Not only did the four go on an unheralded run which included a big win at Texas relays, but each member had illustrious individual moments. Scott herself made the finals at regionals, running a lifetime best sub-53 time. Off the track, Scott is leaving Howard with two degrees. She earned her masters during an 18 month accelerated program, and balanced graduate school with track for the beginning portion. Scott is also currently undertaking an innovative business venture with her brother, in which they are offering plant-based fruit snacks to the public. Though obviously an athlete can benefit from this greatly, the average person will feel better and more energized when eating cleaner. Perfect for on the go! She has gone into business with her older brother, and you can find more on their instagram page @tropittwists Thank you to Ozi for stopping by the Pod!! Recorded:5.6.24
