To commemorate Black History Month, we will be celebrating the achievements of Black Varsity Blues athletes, highlighting their accomplishments, and showcasing their impact in shaping the history of U of T.

Reaching the pinnacle of her sport, Varsity Blues women's track and field alumna Alicia Brown has experienced both the highs and lows of competition.

A standout sprinter competing as a member of the Varsity Blues from 2008 to 2013, Brown won numerous medals, including three gold medals at the 2013 U SPORTS national championships, and received numerous accolades, including U of T's female athlete of the year and the OUA's female MVP honours.

Yet, just as she was beginning preparations to make an even bigger leap into international competition following her university career, a two-year ban from competition presented itself as she tested positive for a trace amount of a diuretic. This forced her to the sideline.

"My most memorable moment in track and field was qualifying for my first Olympic Games in 2016, but the years leading up to this moment were plagued with so much pain and adversity," explained Brown. "In 2013 I received the positive test, which in the hearing was compared to one billionth of a sugar cube, and to this day I still don't know where I ingested it from. But I fought for my integrity and remained true to my convictions, and as I crossed the finish line running a personal best and qualifying for the 2016 Olympic team, no one else could dictate my worth or tell me what I could not do."



Following two years away from competition, Brown would go on to compete with Team Canada on several occasions, including at the showcase event in track and field. As a member of Canada's 4x400 relay team at both the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, Brown raced to a fourth-place finish in Brazil and Tokyo, respectively.

The foundation for overcoming such adversity, not just within any individual races, but within her career, she credits to her support systems and coaches.

"It truly takes a village, and my village has had a profound impact on my life," said Brown. "I owe a lot of gratitude to my coaches and U of T as they played an integral role in my development both on and off the track."

Having gone through such experiences has provided Brown with an ability to understand and adapt in difficult scenarios. One of which plagues even the best-of-the-best, imposter syndrome. Brown provides encouragement for any athlete trying to overcome this hurdle which can at times sap the confidence from any worthy competitor.

"The first time in new spaces is always a little intimidating and imposter syndrome can sneak up quickly. It's exactly how most athletes feel when they compete at a higher level for the first time (U SPORTS, World Championships, Olympics). But you must remember that you belong, you've earned the right to be there just like all the other athletes around you. Find strength and confidence in the countless hours you've spent training – you've never been more ready than you are right now."

In a full-circle moment, Brown has since returned to U of T following her retirement from competition, becoming a key member of Hart House's Fitness, Wellness and Recreation team. Now providing the next generation of U of T students with guidance, she adds the importance of the variety of campus and Varsity Blues initiatives like the BVA (BIPOC Varsity Association).

"As a bi-racial kid growing up in Ottawa, I didn't see myself represented, and despite the unwavering support I received at home, it made it hard for me to imagine what was possible," detailed Brown. "That is what makes initiatives like the BVA matter, because it creates safe spaces for student-athletes to find community and mentorship, to share their voices, and to advocate for change."