In our RT Snap Q&A series, we’ve had the privilege of interviewing some of the world’s best runners, delving into their extraordinary journeys, celebrating their achievements, and exploring the unwavering dedication that defines their careers.
Tayleb Willis
- Born: March 18, 2003
- Nationality: Australian
- 110m hurdler
A rising star in the world of athletics, specializing in the 110m hurdles. In 2020, he earned the top global ranking for U18 athletes in the 110m hurdles, marking him as a standout talent early in his career. By 2022, he placed fifth in the 110m hurdles at the World Athletics U20 Championships in Cali, Colombia, solidifying his reputation on the international stage.
He is a five-time Australian national junior champion and the third fastest Australian in history in the 110m hurdles, with a personal best of 13.44 seconds. Willis transitioned successfully from junior to senior competitions, securing a dominant 85% win rate in his events. His journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics came after an impressive victory at the Oceania Championships and strong performances in the lead-up season, including a personal best run in Canada.
Personals Best
- 110 Metres Hurdles – 13.44
- 60 Metres – 6.76
- 100 Metres – 10.48
- 200 Metres – 21.46
- 4×100 Metres Relay – 41.83
- Long Jump – 7.07
- Triple Jump – 14.18
- 60 Metres – 7.24
- 100 Yards – 10.19
- 110 Metres Hurdles (99.0cm) – 13.48
- 110 Metres Hurdles (91.4cm) – 13.52
- 110 Metres Hurdles (91.4cm) – 13.43
- 4×400 Metres Relay Mixed – 3:41.39
RT: In 2023, you faced challenges transitioning into senior competition, but by 2024 you hit five personal bests and climbed to number three all-time in Australia. What key adjustments or developments helped you make that breakthrough?
Tayleb: There were numerous factors that contributed to my breakthrough season. I changed coaches, I switched off from all the irrelevant things in life. I matured as both an athlete and a human and just locked in.
RT: What aspects of your performance do you still feel you need to improve, and how do you plan to work on them?
Tayleb: There is so much for me and my team to improve. So much technical aspects. We are all great at communication and will make it happen.
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RT: Every athlete faces setbacks. Can you share a challenging moment in your career and how you worked through it?
Tayleb: I have had numerous amounts of setbacks over the last few years with Covid was definitely challenging missing competitions etc but the biggest one was breaking my big toe only 6 weeks before the world U20 Championships in 2022. I had to recover, rehab and get back to full strength in 6 weeks to perform on the biggest stage I had competed on at the time.
RT: Can you describe your typical training routine and how you prepare for major competitions?
Tayleb: My training routine consists up of gym, core, speed, and hurdles. I train extremely hard, nail all the percentages and prepare like I’ve never won.
RT: With such high expectations from a young age, how do you handle the pressure to perform at the highest level?
Tayleb: I only have gained full confidence in my abilities over the last year or so. I am able to perform under pressure because I do everything right all year round so my body and mind is ready for the moment. I just let it happen.
RT: How has working with Kyle Vander-Kuyp, a National record holder, helped you elevate your performance?
Tayleb: Working with Kyle Vander-Kuyp has been amazing. Our friendship and professionalism are something I always dreamt of with a coach. We are only new in working with each other so what’s to come will be something.
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RT: Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave in the world of athletics, and what advice would you give to young athletes aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
Tayleb: The legacy I am trying to leave in the world of athletics is to be remembered as the world’s greatest hurdler. We had Sally Pearson, the Olympic champion. There is a spot left for men’s high hurdling in Australia. That’s where I want my name to come up.
The advice I would give to young athletes is to always trust the process if you believe something will happen and you work hard every day to make that happen. It will sooner or later. Also following your heart always is something I want to see more kids
doing. Don’t follow the crowd just to fit in when you have been given a gift inside you.
