What began as a middle school activity has now taken Martin High School senior Kerragan Johnson around the world. Johnson first discovered her love for track and field in the sixth grade – a love that quickly turned into a passion and years of dedication, discipline, and determination.
Born with a limb difference, Johnson has never let challenges define her. Instead, she’s used them as motivation to push harder, run faster, and prove what’s possible through perseverance.
This past September, that commitment paid off when Johnson earned the honor of representing Team USA at the World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi, India. Her journey to the global stage began months earlier at the national meet in Oregon, where she competed in both the 200-meter and 400-meter events.
“The first major step was securing my place on the national team,” Johnson said. “I competed at the national meet in Oregon this summer, running both the 200m and 400m events. It was my performance there that validated the countless hours of training.”
Her outstanding results in Oregon officially qualified her in both events and opened the door to an opportunity that few athletes ever experience – representing their country on the world stage.
Competing against the best para-athletes in the world, Johnson placed sixth in the 200-meter and eighth in the 400-meter.
When she arrived in New Delhi, Johnson found herself surrounded by the best athletes from across the globe. The experience pushed her to new heights and reminded her just how far she had come since that first race in sixth grade.
“In India, competing against the best in the world was the ultimate test,” she said. “Representing the USA and achieving those milestones is something I’ll never forget.”
Her time in India was more than just a competition – it was a turning point.
“This experience has solidified my drive and shown me what is possible when discipline meets a dream,” Johnson said. “My journey is far from over. My training will continue as I prepare for my high school season and my off season for the Paralympics.”
Johnson’s story is one of perseverance and passion – a reminder that big dreams often begin in small places. An inspiration to all of Arlington ISD, she’s proving that hard work and determination can take you anywhere – even halfway around the world!