Malik Metivier who specializes in the grueling 400 meter hurdles will be running in the NCAA National Championship Meet in Eugene Oregon representing Auburn University (Alabama) this month.

Malik started his track career in elementary school running at Our Lady of Peace. He also played rep basketball for the Etobicoke Thunder and rep soccer for Etobicoke Energy. Malik started to focus on track at Father Redmond in grade 10. He later went on to train with the Etobicoke Track and Field Club under Godfrey James. Malik finished 6th in the 400m hurdles at OFSAA in grade 11 and was injured for the season in grade 12.

Due to the injury in his grade 12 season, he only received one NCAA Division 1 scholarship offer from Drake University, which he accepted. By his second year at Drake, Malik had qualified for the NCAA West Regionals and had broken the school record. But the end of the 2018 season was bitter sweet. He went on to win his first Ontario Championship, his first Canadian Championship and qualify for his first National team but also realized that because of the coaching changes at Drake, he would need to transfer schools. Malik decided to transfer to Auburn University in Alabama.

The transfer came with challenges. Another injury and the decision to stay in Alabama to train alone during the pandemic was difficult. But it became obvious that it was the right choice because in his senior year at Auburn he won a bronze medal at the SEC Conference Championships. He then went on to compete at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Oregon.

In Oregon, he ran a personal best time of 49.26, earning the title of “All-American” by finishing 5th overall.

Currently, Malik Metivier is ranked #1 in Canada in the 400m hurdles and 7th in the NCAA which is an amazing feat given the injuries that he has had to endure.

With all of his accomplishments on the track, Malik’s proudest moment came in May when he graduated from Auburn University, Magna Cum Laude with a degree from the College of Liberal Arts (Communications).

“Congratulations Malik!! Your perseverance, dedication and commitment has not only paid off but it has set a high standard for other elite athletes trying to pursue their athletic dreams and careers. Something tells me that you’re not done yet” says Joanne Noble, President and Chair of the Board of the Etobicoke Sports Hall of Fame.

The Athlete of the Month is sponsored by The Etobicoke Sports Hall of Fame, Humber College, Canadian Tire-The Queensway, and The Etobicoke Guardian. To nominate an athlete, please visit www.etobicokesports.ca
Promoting, Supporting and Developing Sport in Etobicoke