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Quanera Hayes is a distinguished American sprinter specializing in the 400 meters, renowned for her remarkable achievements on the track and her inspiring journey as a mother.
Quanera Hayes born March 7, 1992 is an American sprinter specializing in the 400 meters distance. She won the bronze medal at the 2016 World Indoor Championships and is the 2020 US Olympic Trials champion in the women's 400 m. She has earned several gold medals for the United States in the 4 × 400 m relay, including at the World Championships and World Relays in 2017, as well as the World Indoor Championships in 2016, 2018 and 2025. She is a 400 m 2021 Diamond League champion.
Early life
Hayes was born March 7, 1992. She was raised in her hometown of Hope Mills, North Carolina and attended Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina, competing for the NCAA Division II track and field team from 2012 until 2015 when she graduated.
Professional track career
Hayes won the women's 400 m at the United States Olympic Trials on June 20, 2021, qualifying for the delayed 2020 Summer Olympics with a seasonal best time of 49.78 seconds ahead of Allyson Felix.
Athletic Achievements
Olympic Success: Hayes secured a spot in the 2020 Summer Olympics by winning the 400m at the U.S. Olympic Trials in 2021 with a time of 49.78 seconds.
World Championships: She has earned multiple gold medals in the 4x400m relay at World Championships and World Indoor Championships, contributing significantly to Team USA's success.
Diamond League Champion: In 2021, Hayes clinched the 400m title at the Diamond League Final in Zürich.
Personal Life
Family: Born on March 7, 1992, in Dillon, South Carolina, Hayes was raised in Hope Mills, North Carolina. She attended Livingstone College, where she honed her athletic skills.
Motherhood: Hayes is a proud mother to her son, Demetrius, born in October 2018. She has shared the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with her athletic career, emphasizing the importance of her son's presence in her life.
Relationship: She is married to Demetrius Hayes Sr., a former professional track and field athlete from the Bahamas.
sportskeeda.com
As of June 20, 2021, she had a 2-year-old son named Demetrius.
Resilience and Advocacy
Hayes has been open about the challenges she faced returning to elite competition after childbirth, including physical setbacks and emotional hurdles. Her perseverance has made her a role model for athletes balancing family and professional aspirations. She has also been an advocate for better maternity care for female athletes, alongside fellow Olympian Allyson Felix.
Legacy
Quanera Hayes continues to inspire with her dedication to both her sport and her family. Her story reflects the strength and resilience of athletes who navigate the complexities of professional sports and motherhood.
