Unsponsored entering Olympic trials, Eric Holt strikes deal with Puma before advancing in 800 meters
Clayton Murphy, Brandon Miller and Eric Holt finish a heat in the men's 800-meter during the U.S. Track and Field Olympic Team Trials Thursday, June 27, 2024, in Eugene, Ore. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
EUGENE, Ore. (AP) — Middle distance runner Eric Holt circled the track Thursday night feeling faster, flashier and richer than ever.
It's gotta be the shoe deal. Make room, Usain Bolt, because you have company on the Puma team.
Holt, the 29-year-old previously unsponsored and unpaid runner, made his 800-meter appearance at the U.S. track and field trials wearing an orange speed suit and matching Puma spikes. He finished fifth in his heat to advance to the semifinals.
“I look like a superhero,” Holt said.
Holt arrived at trials as a track-world celebrity — the everyday runner who quit his job to pursue his passion of running. He went viral on social media for his story.
He signed a deal with Puma that he said lasts through 2025. For once, money won't be a source of stress. He can afford to take his girlfriend out to dinner — and pay.
“I can now do what I love,” said Holt, who came up short in his bid to make the U.S. team in the 1,500 meters. “I can continue to make more business decisions in my life, be more financially well off. It just relieves so much. Because to be honest, I sometimes feel insecure. I don’t like having only a few $100 in my bank account.”
Even more, he doesn't have to leave his training group behind. He has received permission to still work out in Westchester County with his coach, John Trautmann, and the Empire Elite Track Club. His club's emblem was on his new track outfit, right near the Puma logo.
“I’m so grateful because I honestly was kind of pessimistic in my life. You know, ‘Oh man, no one ever gives me a shot. Can someone just give me a shot?’” said Holt, who's from New York. “To get paid and represent a brand like Puma, what else could I ask for? I’m living my best life.”
This race marked only the second time he has slipped on the pair of Puma spikes. But if they're fast enough for the retired Bolt, the world record holder in the 100 and 200, they're more than fast enough for Holt.
“I feel like I can make an Olympic team in them,” Holt said. “This is insane. I can’t believe I did it.”
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AP Summer Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games
Pat Graham, The Associated Press