IRVINE, Calif. - Although Saturday's outdoor track & field season-opener has been canceled due to expected inclement weather, we will still wrap up our countdown series by getting to know junior transfer Asa Allen.
 
Allen comes to UC Irvine from Merritt College where he was a two-time state finalist and conference champion in the 110-meter hurdles. Allen claimed runner-up honors at the 2017 CCCAA State Championships with a personal-record 13.99. 
 
1. Warriors
Born and raised in Oakland, Calif., I've always enjoyed playing basketball and going to Warriors games, now defending champions. Their success today motivates me to be at the top as well.
 
2. From the Gridiron & Court to the Track
I never saw myself running Division I track & field. In high school, I played football and basketball all four years, and only started track my junior year as a way to make me faster and stronger for the other sports. Running for my junior college in Oakland allowed me the opportunity of meeting a phenomenal coach who got me to where I am right now.
 
3. Pre-Meet Routine
While getting ready to compete, I like to listen to jazz to calm myself down. As my race gets closer, I listen to hip-hop and R&B to get loose. 
 
4. Individual Focus
I never liked the fact that in basketball, if the team was not one and played by themselves, it would reflect itself on the court. Track gives me the opportunity to focus on myself and not worry about others, even if they are my teammates. I can still be a good teammate by supporting their races, however, when I am in my own individual race, my only focus is myself.
 
5. Favorite Pro
My favorite professional runner is Aries Merritt, the world record holder in the 110 hurdles, which is my event. He is very technical and unique in his races.
 

EXTRAS
What are your goals for the season?
This season I plan to break the school record for the 110 hurdles and make it to NCAA's to compete for the national championship.
 
Favorite movie:
I don't know if it's my all-time favorite movie, but Don't Be a Menace is too hilarious not to mention.
 
What has been your most memorable track & field moment so far?
My most memorable moment would have to be my state championship race last year. I was second by two hundredths of a second, but got a decent time that allowed me to be recruited by big schools such as UCI. Memories of that race push me to strive harder in track and never lose like that again.