Lightning Speed and Leadership: Colonial Forge Senior Michelle Basoah-Sarfo Balances Elite Track Career with Academic Excellence
Since stepping onto the track as a freshman, Colonial Forge High School Senior Michelle Basoah-Sarfo has been setting the pace as one of Stafford County's most decorated runners. Known for her lightning speed in the 55 and 100-meter dashes, Michelle has built a record as a team leader who brings consistency and relentless drive to improve each season.
Since the fall of 2022, Michelle has been taking the track by storm. As a freshman, she won the 'Top Athletic Newcomer Award' and became the only Class of 2026 varsity track member to compete at states at Forge. Now a senior, Michelle holds the fastest record as a freshman in Colonial Forge history for the 55 and 100-meter dashes. Soon after setting these records, Michelle found herself on the national stage, qualifying for the U.S. New Balance Nationals in both her freshman indoor and outdoor seasons. By her sophomore year, Michelle became a definitive leader, serving as the co-captain of the varsity sprinter team.
Michelle's impact as an athlete extends beyond her individual performances. As a relay sprinter, Michelle has also served as a bridge for her 4x100 team, which has received three state championships since 2023. While sprinting is her primary area of focus, she's not afraid to branch out and has experimented with long jump and plans to focus on that, along with her main sprinting events, during the upcoming winter track season.
After graduating from high school, Michelle intends to continue her successful career as a sprinter. "I plan to run track at the collegiate level," she shares, "and am working towards being recruited at the Division 1 level." That dedication has carried over into all areas of her life. In the classroom, Michelle excels as a student in Virginia's Commonwealth Governor's School program and is training as a pre-professional Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). She also plays as a first violinist in Forge's Chamber Orchestra and participates in many extracurricular clubs and activities, such as the National Honor Society, Black Student Union, Science National Honor Society, and more.
When it comes to improving performance, Michelle suggests that athletes take on a practical and thoughtful approach. "Watch 'film' and analyze those who inspire you," she advises. "It's quite important to be able to see where you've gone wrong and be able to watch others and say, 'Yeah, I see it now. I need to fix this.'"
To younger aspiring runners and academic leaders chasing big goals, Michelle offers a point of perspective that comes from triumphant victories and intense challenges:" Learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable. Be kind to yourself and remember that you aren't superhuman; don't expect superhuman results—expect improvement."
By continuing to persevere as a role model for current and upcoming runners both inside and outside of her community, Michelle's drive, leadership, and unyielding commitment to bettering herself and her teammates make her a strong role model for many. Her powerful endurance and resolve point towards a bright future both on and off the track—making strides towards becoming an influential athlete and academic scholar from the Stafford County region.
