Diane RICHARD

Athletic performances

5’9 ft ft and 132 lbs
Club : AS Caluire Athletisme
Personal Best : (https://worldathletics.org/athletes/france/diane-richard-14865750)
400mHH : 59’96
Triple Jump : 12m29 (40,32 ft)

Interview

What makes you different?

Standing at 1m80, I bring a unique physical presence to my events, specializing in both the 400m hurdles and triple jump. My height gives me a natural advantage in stride length and power, which is crucial for hurdling and explosive jumping. My specialization in both the 400m hurdles and triple jump demonstrates a combination of speed, strength, precision, and endurance that sets me apart from other athletes. The 400m hurdles require mental toughness, strategic pacing, and the ability to push through fatigue, while the triple jump demands explosive power, technique, and coordination. Excelling in both disciplines shows my adaptability and willingness to take on challenges.
Beyond the track, I thrive in new environments and value the opportunity to connect with others. I love being part of a team, where I can motivate and support my teammates while also learning from them. As a tutor at my current school, I enjoy sharing knowledge, helping others grow, and building meaningful interactions that foster mutual respect and collaboration.
Academically, I am passionate about engineering, applying discipline, focus, and problem-solving skills in my studies. Additionally, I love creativity. My dedication to art—through painting, drawing, and photography—has taught me patience, attention to detail, and the importance of expressing individuality.
This multidisciplinary approach not only reflects my adaptability, work ethic and commitment, but also emphasizes my determination to push boundaries in all aspects of my life. 

Why do you want to compete in the U.S college system?

The U.S. college system offers unparalleled opportunities for athletes and scholars alike, making it the ideal environment for me to grow both on the track and in the classroom. Competing at a collegiate level will allow me to further refine my skills in the 400m hurdles and triple jump, facing strong competition and receiving top-notch coaching. 
In France, I currently juggle a demanding schedule, balancing my engineering studies, athletic training, and artistic pursuits. My club is small and operates with limited facilities, which has taught me to be resourceful and determined. Despite these challenges, I have achieved significant success, which demonstrates my ability to adapt and perform under less-than-ideal conditions.
Unlike in France, where sports and academics are separated, the U.S. college system offers a unique environment where I can integrate both passions seamlessly. Access to innovative programs, hands-on learning and mentorship will allow me to progress further as a scholar as well. I believe that this dual focus will help me reach new heights and fully realize my potential.

Track and Life goals

My immediate goal is to continue developing as a track and field athlete, taking full advantage of my height and physical abilities to excel in the 400m hurdles and triple jump. I am eager to bring my skills and determination to a competitive college team while pursuing a degree in engineering. 
While I am already dedicated to improving my performance, I am excited about the opportunity to refine my skills further, as I believe I am only scratching the surface of my potential as an athlete.
In the long term, I hope to compete at higher levels, potentially internationally, while also building a meaningful career in engineering. The skills I have honed as an athlete—discipline, perseverance, and a passion for problem-solving—will serve me well in both my athletic pursuits and my professional future, allowing me to make a positive impact in both fields.