Meet Three-time Olympic Metalist: Will Claye

2016 silver and 2012 silver and bronze Olympic medalist Will Claye is not only a world-class athlete. He is a model, fashion maven, rapper and philanthropist. Check out our interview with Mr. Claye as he talks competing in the Olympics, Fashion and Community Service.

Explain the feeling you had when you went to the Olympics for the first time in 2012?

My first Olympics, I went into it so hungry because I knew that was the pinnacle of my sport. Even though I was so young, I felt I would be a disappointment if I left empty handed. I went into my first Olympics like it would be my last.

Congratulations in winning your silver medal for the triple jump in the 2016 Olympics. How was competing in this year different from 2012?

2016 Olympics was a bit different in a sense that I was coming from a low point in my life. I had been injured, had a falling out with my coach and was just lost during the early months of 2016. I was unsure of what was going to happen with my career. So going into it I was just thankful for being there, and I knew God had me there for a reason because he got me through so much. I felt as though, all that I went through built me up to do what I had to do at the Olympic Games.

What does your training consist of to compete in the Olympics?

My training consists of workouts on the track and weight room from 11-4/5 Monday through sat. (Can’t be giving all my secrets away)

You were endorsed by Nike. How important was it for this partnership between Nike and your brand?

I will forever appreciate Nike for signing me a few days after I turned 20 years old and putting me into a financial place I never imagined I would be in at the age. It was important for me to work with them coming out of college because I learned the business side of athletic shoes and apparel and also design. They allowed me to design their newest model of triple jump spikes and that is something that will help me when I go into my own ventures in the future.

Who inspires you and why?

I am really inspired by children! They see and take in everything adults do and I love that. I want to be a positive spark in any child life that sees me because I feel like with the right spark in a child’s like they can grow up to be an amazing person in this world and right now the world needs that more than anything.

You are very interested in Fashion. Define your personal style?

My personal style is really based off of how I am feeling on the inside. I like to express how I feel through my clothing. If I am feeling like I’m on my “Jidenna Classic Man” tip, I may where a suit with some nice loafers or if I’m feeling like a Rockstar I may wear some slightly ripped jeans and a fear of God flannel. It just depends on where my head is at.

Who has influenced your Fashion?

My style has been influenced by my older brother Tai, my mother and father, Aleali, Pharrell, 2007 Kanye, Nigo and sometimes just random people or things I’ll see on the streets or in a photograph.

Outside of sports what are some of your passions?

My passions outside of sports are my faith, art, and being around family and friends.

You have become quite successful as an athlete. Why do you want to start a music career?

I have been doing music with my friends since I was 10 years old, but we just made music for us to listen to. Now I just want the rest of the world to hear it and feel good from the vibes.

Why is Community Service so important to you?

Community service is something I feel should be important to all of us. We are one human race and we need to stick together and help each other out. I feel as though God didn’t bless me just for me. I feel I’ve been blessed to be a blessing to others as well. Being up and seeing people around you down is not a good feeling. I host a Charity weekend April 27-30 in Scottsdale Arizona where all the proceeds go to my Elevate Foundation to help send kids to college.

What can we look forward to from Will Claye?

In 2017 you can look forward to seeing a lot of big things from me coming from a few different avenues! I know this year is going to be a big year so stay tuned!

Check out his Nike Olympian Inside look below.

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