Photo credit: Sydne Vigille
Very seldom does the perfect mix of hard work, talent and humility conjoin inside one extraordinary individual. Clearly Florida A&M University’s sophomore running phenom David Too, sheds the traditional mold of a superstar athlete.
Too, a native of Kenya, began competing in his early years at Kosirai High school. While challenges existed, Too appreciates his time in Kenya, which ultimately led to him earning a bid at nationals as well as recruitment by FAMU track coaches. Several mentors of Too’s encouraged the runner to continue to train in distance running while also motivating Too to pursue a degree at a university in America. Too spoke about the adjustment period transitioning from Kenya to the United States.
“It’s been a good experience traveling about 10,000 miles, or 18 to 20 hours by plane. That can be a challenge, but its good experience. Kenya compared to this place provides a different environment and sometimes you just have to adjust to a different environment.”
Versatility is an area of strength for Too, as he competes for both the men’s cross country squad as well as the indoor and outdoor track team. In just his second year at FAMU, Too secured Most outstanding performer of the year honors at the 2017 cross country MEAC championships in October. Too would later go on to place in the top 20 at the NCAA’s southern regional championship before finishing a record setting sophomore campaign.
For many, a season with so many accolades would have been cause for celebration, though Too knew that his work for the year was far from finished. Early in the 2018 track schedule Too snagged a 6th place finish in the mile run, and placed 3rd in the 500 meter run. Following that meet Too dominated at the 2018 MEAC Championships in Maryland, earning Most outstanding runner for his performances in the mile, 3000 meter run and the 5000 meter run.
While Too has the ability to run any event from the mile to the 10k run, he prefers to strategize with his coaches during the week to run whatever races may chalk up the most points for the team.
“I like to sit down with my coaches and figure out what’s the best way to earn points, whether it’s the mile, 5k, or 10k,” Too said.
Too was also quick to mention that his recent success has not been the result of just his own hard work as he turned the spotlight on his teammates and coaches. This unselfish attitude is what has garnered Too much support from his teammates.
Teammates Onesmus Kemboi and Boniface Mutai both spoke highly of David when asked about his impact on the track team.
“Too is the best in team building, motivation and hard work,”said Kemboi. Mutai added, “David is a good role model, social to everyone, loving and caring and determined in everything he does.”
Such high praise does not come easily in an age where selfishness and envy dominate most team sports. Though Too has managed to shelf his ego in favor of building a winning culture in the cross country and track divisions at FAMU.
With 2 years left at FAMU, Too hopes to make the NCAA national competition, which he missed by mere seconds earlier in the academic year. After completing his time on the hill, Too plans to use his degree while competing professionally.
Up next for David Too will be the FAMU relays on March 3rd. When asked what events he will run, Too’s answer was simple, “Whatever Coach Moore and the team needs me to run, that’s what I will run.”