Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Ibre Edwards

Ibre Edwards is a junior girls track and field athlete at Booker High. As of March 19, Edwards holds the fifth-fastest 400-meter hurdles time in Florida High School Athletic Association Class 2A (1:06.71) according to TFRRS Florida. Edwards set the mark March 7 at the 2024 Riverview Ram Invitational at Riverview High. Edwards also holds the No. 27 time in the 100 meter hurdles (17.00 seconds), set at the same meet. 

When did you start track and field?

I started in sixth grade. I liked to run around at school during recess. Then I wanted to try running for real, and I liked it. It was exciting. Then two summers ago, I tried doing the hurdles. I practiced for a few weeks before competing at a regional event for the Junior Olympics, and I made it. And I've stuck with it. 

What is your favorite event?

It's the 100 hurdles. It's my best event — although I did do well in the 400 meters at my last meet, so maybe that will be my best. I guess I love both. 

What is the key to running a fast hurdles race?

Look straight ahead, focus and do not stutter-step. That will mess up the whole thing. When you get out (of your blocks), you have to keep the same pace the whole time. And don't be nervous. 

What is your favorite memory?

Last year's state meet. I didn't think I would place, and then I did place. But that's only my favorite for now — there are more memories to come. (Edwards finished seventh in the 100-meter hurdles at the 2023 state meet, finishing in 14.90 seconds.)

What are your goals for your career?

I want to break my aunt's (Tasha Phillips) school record in the 100-meter hurdles. She's at a 14.24 or something like that; my PR is 14.90. I've got another year to go, so I will be breaking it. (Laughs.) I'd like to get a 14 flat. 

What is your favorite food?

I'll say fried chicken. 

What is your favorite movie?

I like "Because of Winn-Dixie," the one about the dog. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like reading and English class. We can write essays and talk about ourselves and what we have going on or about the world. 

Which super power would you pick?

Invisibility. I would sneak around places. 

What are your hobbies?

I'm trying to start my own clothing brand. I'm still working on the designs right now, but that's mainly how I spend my free time. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Don't ever say that you can't jump over something or do something. Once you get the technique, you can surprise yourself. 

Finish this sentence: "Ibre Edwards is …"

Determined.