Morris's passion for athletics started early. In second grade, she paid a boy a quarter to race her over 100m and won. This victory led her parents to sign her up for a children's athletics team. Her love for the sport grew from there.

Education and Personal Life

Morris pursued higher education in Journalism and Broadcasting at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. She is married to Tyrone Smith, an Olympian who represented Bermuda in long jump at the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympic Games. Her parents, Harry and Kerry, also competed in athletics at the university level.

Injuries and Comebacks

Throughout her career, Morris has faced several injuries. In 2016, she broke her left wrist when her pole shattered mid-jump at the World Challenge event in Ostrava, Czech Republic. She returned to full training six weeks later. In 2017 and early 2018, she dealt with ankle and back problems but made a strong comeback at the 2018 World Indoor Championships in Birmingham, England.

Awards and Honours

Morris's achievements include being named Southeastern Conference Women's Scholar Athlete of the Year and Women's Co-Field Athlete of the Year in 2015. The same year, she was also recognised as the Outdoor Scholar Field Athlete of the Year by the US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association.

Philosophy and Hobbies

Morris lives by the motto: "The first step in accomplishing the impossible is believing fully that you can achieve it." Her hobbies include animals, blogging, playing the guitar, and singing. In 2019, she released a song titled 'Souvenir' in collaboration with US pole sprinter Noah Lyles and Swiss band Baba Shrimps.

Training During the Pandemic

During the coronavirus pandemic in 2020, Morris and her father built a 120-foot runway on public land near her parents' home in Greenville. This setup allowed her to continue training despite restrictions. Morris described this project as an incredible distraction that enabled her to enjoy pole vaulting.

Future Ambitions

Looking ahead, Morris aims to win a gold medal at the Olympic Games. Her dedication to training and overcoming challenges positions her well for future success.

Morris's journey from a young athlete racing boys for fun to an elite pole vaulter is inspiring. Her resilience through injuries and commitment to her sport highlight her as a notable figure in athletics.