Oct. 3, 2017
By Morgan MacDonald, Auburn Media Relations
Auburn track and field sophomore Akeem Bloomfield is the kind of athlete with both world class talent and charisma that one wants to be a part of their program. At the 2017 SEC Indoor Track and Field Championships, the Kingston, Jamaica-born sprinter claimed the Auburn school record and the third-fastest time in the nation in the 400m with a 45.43 dash. He followed in the outdoor season with a fifth-place finish at the Outdoor NCAA Championships to earn First Team All-American honors. With his charm, spirit and undeniable athletic ability, there is little doubt that Bloomfield will continue to achieve big things in his sophomore year.
Q: What was it like growing up in Jamaica as a runner?
A: "The environment around me was always very nice and the weather was perfect for track running. Jamaica is a very culture-rich country, so I really enjoyed my experience growing up there."
Q: Did you start running at a young age?
A: "I would say I started running when I was about six years old. Track and field in Jamaica is like football is here in America. Since it is our premier sport we put all of our funding into track and field."
Q: Have you always run the 400m?
A: "I used to be a 100m and 200m sprinter, but I got injured a lot and decided to move up to the 400m."
Q: What was it like when you got your All-American Honors?
A: "I was a freshman and the All-American is one of the top accolades in college track and field, so it was a pretty good experience. I am pretty happy about my accomplishments last year."
Q: Have you had that moment of realizing you've reached great success?
A: "I haven't had that one moment yet. Last year was a good year for me and I can't complain about everything I achieved, but I still feel as though I am climbing the hill to success."
Q: Do you have a favorite TV show?
A: "I just recently started watching Game of Thrones and I really like that one."
Q: Do you have a favorite breakfast before your meets?
A: "My favorite is probably eggs with Mozzarella cheese and cinnamon toast."
Q: Do you have any hype music you listen to before a meet?
A: "I listen to a lot of orchestral music. Hans Zimmer is actually my favorite composer, so I like to listen and focus on his music before I run a big race rather than stress about the run ahead."