Jacory Petterson, a 25-year-old UPS worker running unsponsored, stunned many at the Grand Slam Track on May 3rd, 2025, by winning the 400m in a world-leading 43.98 seconds. It was his first time breaking the 44-second barrier and the fastest time globally since August 2024.
Patterson’s victory earned him 12 points and $50,000 in prize money, outpacing Trinidadian star Jereem Richards, who finished second in 44.32 seconds but secured the overall long sprints title with 20 points.
Moreover, Jacory Patterson’s story resonated because of his demanding routine: he trains in the morning, works night shifts loading UPS trucks from 10:45 p.m. to 4:30 a.m., and sleeps only about three hours a day. After his win, Jacory Richards interrupted Patterson’s interview, passionately urging sponsors, “Give this man a deal!” a call that quickly gained traction on social media, with fans and track legend Michael Johnson amplifying the message.
Despite his breakthrough and the prize money, Jacory Patterson said he isn’t quitting his UPS job yet, emphasising the need for more financial security before focusing solely on track.
His Miami triumph, though, has made him a symbol of grit and talent shining through adversity, and the track world is now watching to see if sponsors will answer Richards’ call.
Jacory Patterson’s Athletic Background and How Sponsorships Typically Impact Athletes’ Careers
Jacory Patterson Athletics Background
Patterson, born in Columbia, South Carolina in 2000, has built an impressive track and field resume, specialising in sprints. He began his athletic journey in sixth grade, quickly establishing himself as one of the fastest kids in his area. At Dreher High School, Patterson broke the state record in the 200m, won the 400m state title, and set school records in the 100m, 400m, long jump, and triple jump. He also won gold in the long jump at the 2016 USATF Junior Olympics before focusing on sprinting.
In addition, Jacory Patterson attended Virginia Tech, where he set the world under-20 indoor 300m record at 32.49 seconds as a freshman in 2019. Between 2019 and 2021, he won six Atlantic Coast Conference championships. He later transferred to the University of Florida, setting a collegiate indoor 300m record of 31.99s and becoming the eighth-fastest man ever in the event.
Moreover, Patterson has also excelled in relays, helping Florida win NCAA and SEC titles in the 4x400m relay. Internationally, he earned a bronze medal in the 400m and a gold medal in the 4x400m relay at the 2025 World Athletics Indoor Championships.
His personal bests include 10.11s in 100m, 20.20s in 200m, and 44.27s in 400m.
How Sponsorships Typically Impact Athletes’ Careers
Sponsorships play a crucial role in an athlete’s career, especially in track and field. For athletes like Jacory, sponsorship deals provide financial support for training, travel, equipment, and living expenses, allowing them to focus on their sport full-time rather than juggling demanding jobs.
Sponsorships often come from shoe and apparel companies, and top athletes may also receive bonuses for performances, records, and media appearances.
Without sponsorship, even world-class athletes can face significant financial strain, as prize money alone is often insufficient for long-term security. Sponsorships can also raise an athlete’s profile, leading to more competition invitations and media opportunities. For Jacory Patterson, securing a sponsorship could mean leaving his UPS job and dedicating himself entirely to training and competition.
