Lashawn Merritt is not just a sprinting legend but a symbol of dedication and excellence in the world of track and field. Born in Portsmouth, Virginia, Merritt has spent almost two decades as a professional athlete, achieving unparalleled success in his field. He is a graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School (now Manor High School), where he began his dominance on the track. In 2004, Merritt swept the 100m, 200m, and 400m sprints at the Virginia High School League state championships. That same year, he would win individual gold in the 400m at the 2004 World Junior Championships and be a part of two world record setting performances in the 4x100m and 4x400m relays. For his accomplishments, Merritt was named USA Track and Field Youth Athlete of the Year in 2004. After graduating from Wilson High School, Merritt went on to compete collegiately at East Carolina University, where he continued his dominance, but turned pro prior to the 2005 NCAA Championships.