American hurdler Jamal Britt has taken time to honor his coach, Allen Johnson, after the legendary former world champion was named the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) Men’s Outdoor Track and Field Coach of the Year.
Britt, the 2022 NACAC silver medalist in the 110m hurdles, reposted the announcement on his Instagram stories, showing his appreciation for the man who’s been shaping his technique and sharpening his sprint hurdles game this season.
Johnson’s latest accolade comes just months after he was also named the CAA Men’s Indoor Coach of the Year, completing a rare and impressive double. Speaking after receiving the award, Johnson said:
“I’m humbled, really. It is a time of reflection… I didn’t do this alone. I’ve had a lot of help from student-athletes, coaches, and the university staff.”
Since joining North Carolina A&T in 2022, Johnson has revitalized the program. Under his leadership, the Aggies clinched both the indoor and outdoor CAA men’s team titles this year. At their home facility Marcus T. Johnson Track the men’s team claimed multiple event wins, including the 400m, 800m, 400m hurdles, triple jump, shot put, and 4x400m relay. Johnson also sent 14 male athletes to the NCAA East Prelims in Jacksonville, Florida.
Britt at Grand Slam
Britt is one of Johnson’s standout pupils this year. At the Grand Slam Track event in Philadelphia, Britt stormed to a 13.08 win in the 110m hurdles. He edged out world leader Cordell Tinch and former world silver medalist Trey Cunningham.
Speaking after that victory, Britt credited his coach.
“I’m being coached by Allen Johnson… this is my first year with him. I got down there in October,” he said.
“He’s been my idol since I was young. Being coached by him is exciting and also a bit frustrating because he’s so technical. He wants everything to be perfect, but I’m like that too.”
Britt added that Johnson has helped refine key aspects of his race, especially his start and posture through the first five hurdles, an area he’s been focusing on to complement his traditionally strong finish.