Nike-sponsored athlete English Gardner literally had big shoes to fill to win gold at the Rio Olympics.
The runner misplaced her footwear on Friday moments before the women’s 4 x 100-meter track and field relay race in Rio de Janeiro and had to borrow sneakers from teammate Allyson Felix, the most decorated female track star in history. Felix gave Gardner a pair of her own spikes that were a half-size larger and customized for her narrow feet.
Still, history was made for Team USA when it triumphed in 41.01 seconds — the second-fastest time ever in the category.
Gardner, who wears size 7.5, told USA Track & Field that she padded the sneakers with an extra pair of socks to adjust the shoe’s size 8 fitting.
“Out of lane one ….we made history!!!! Thank you ladies for helping a dream come true !!! 🇺🇸🤘🏼 @usatf @teamusa @nike,” Gardner wrote on Instagram, thanking Nike.
She had on Nike Air Zoom All Out Flyknit ULTD Women’s shoes, which are designed to enhance a runner’s stride.
The sneakers incorporate Zoom Air technology that creates an ultra-lightweight, springy feeling, and a form-fitting Flyknit upper that delivers support; available for $170 online.
The sportswear brand’s Olympic-inspired “Medal Stand” Free RN Flyknits are available on nike.com for $130.
Want More?
Nike Officially Unveils The Roshe Two
Kohl’s And Vanessa Hudgens Give Free Nike Sneakers To Students
U.S. Olympic Gymnasts Love Nike’s Medal Stand Sneakers
How To Get The Nike Flyknits Worn By Olympic Medalists
