“I lose money in this sport. I don’t gain money.” Eric Holt speaks out about the struggles of being an unsponsored track athlete He is the fifth-fastest American man in the 1500m this year. He just took the 2022 1500m world champion to the finish line at the NYC Grand Prix. No sponsor has come forward for him since he burst onto the scene in 2021 and he has a chance of breaking through to make the U.S. Olympic team in a few weeks. • Trains in NY and is supported by his club Empire Elite (which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization) • Buys his own apparel/shoes/spikes | “I have to pay for all my own shoes. All my own physio. I have to pay for everything.” • Worked a job at a psychiatric center before leaving to dedicate himself to making the past few Worlds/Olympic teams. • Lives with his parents | “My dad is in his 70s so even though I used to be embarrassed by it. I know I get to spend time with my dad in his older ages. • Has a supportive girlfriend | “When we go out, she pays for every single meal. I told her when I get sponsored, I’ll pay for the meals this time.” This man is betting on himself. If you’re looking for another athlete to root for before the U.S. Olympic Trials, Eric Holt is chasing a dream. ⤵️