Jessica Beard will likely be a member of Team USA’s 4x400m relay pool for late August’s World Championships in Beijing, China. She placed sixth in the 400m at last month’s USATF Championships, making her eligible for the team, and has a deep amount of 4x4 experience that includes an NCAA title while at Texas A&M and medals from the past three World Championships. We caught up with Jessica to talk about the race that many consider to be the most exciting: the 4x4.

What’s the best part about running in a championship 4x4?

The best part is the team aspect. I love not only representing USA, but also the concept of four individuals coming together and striving for the gold medal. 

What’s the worst part about running in a championship 4x4?

I think the initial walk through the call rooms during Worlds is the worst part. You go through at least three call rooms for 45 minutes with your competitors, trying to stay warm and focused in. The fact that we are hidden from everyone and then unleashed into an uproar or silence from the fans after an hour is something I can't really put into words. The helpful part is having veteran teammates constantly checking on you, praying with you and reminding you of who we are as a team and what we represent.

Do you prefer to get the baton with a slight lead or a little behind?

That's a 50/50 question. I love the chase, but I also love the thrill of being the front-runner, making sure I maintain or expand the lead. Really it depends on what day and what stage I'm on. Somewhere like the Olympics or Worlds I'd prefer the front, but in college I loved being the hunter.

Do you get more nervous before a major 400m or 4x4 race?

I most definitely get more nervous for the open 400. Something about the team aspect takes the pressure off because it’s bigger than myself. 

What’s your favorite 4x4 memory?

My favorite 4x4 memory is from my senior season at NCAA Championships. We were behind and all I could think of was beat Oregon, since we were tied in the team standings. Many people have told me that when they get discouraged, they remember that race. That it seemed impossible for me to get back into the race, but we pulled out the win. It is very humbling and encouraging knowing your gift can impact or touch someone's heart or mind. Watch that race here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMd_NF4Ly0M

What’s your favorite 4x4 leg to run?

My favorite leg is a tough question to answer. In college, I almost always ran anchor leg, and most times I loved it. I would say now, because of my experience at Moscow in 2013, I enjoy first leg. 

Russia was able to edge USA out in the 4x4 at Moscow 2013. Is that race still fresh in your mind?

Yes, Moscow is very fresh in my mind. I'd love redemption and another chance to battle the rest of our competitors for the World gold.

How do you feel about the prospective USA 4x4 team for Worlds?

I feel very confident with the team we have going over to Beijing. The majority are vets. As long as everyone stays healthy, stays focused on the main goal and stays committed to Team USA, I think we will be hard to beat. Nothing is a given, so we will have to give it our all, each leg, until the anchor leg crosses the finish line. I know we will bring our personalities and A-game to the track. (The women who finished within the top six at USATF Championships were Allyson Felix, Natasha Hastings, Phyllis Francis, Francena McCorory, Quanera Hayes and Jessica Beard).

Photo by Victah Sailer of Photorun