Howard graduate working at the deli counter at Walmart vies for Olympics

Dylan Beard is a Howard University graduate who is currently working at a Walmart deli. Beard, who works full-time at the grocery chain, graduated from Howard with a Masters in Public Health.

The Walmart staff has taken an extraordinary step to fulfill his Olympic dreams. He is a competitive hurdler, racing to earn a spot on the U.S. Olympic Track team while working full-time at the grocery chain’s deli counter.

He will compete for a chance to be part of the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Beard drew attention after winning the Millrose Games 60-meter hurdles in February. Today reports that his 7.44-second run made him the third-fastest hurdler in the world.

Beard’s instructor, Reuben McCoy, praised his dedication and tenacity for doing such remarkable things. “Dylan’s work ethic is next level. He provides excellent customer service all the time. He goes above and beyond, just like he does on the track,” he said.

If selected for the squad, Beard, unlike other Olympic hopefuls, will have to cover his own travel expenses to Paris. However, following his appearance on the Today Show to tell his extraordinary story, he walked away with some capital to support his career. 

Co-anchor Craig Melvin gave him a $20,000 check from Walmart to help his friends and family support him on his journey to the Olympic trials.

“I’m appreciative—very appreciative. Very unexpected. And I’m very thankful,” he said.

Beard will participate in the June U.S. Olympic track and field trials. He will compete against other competitors at the event in Eugene, Oregon.

With his master’s degree in public health, he hopes to counsel at-risk youth. Whether he’s racing or working at Walmart, he said he’ll always give his all.

“At the end of the day, my name is attached to what I’m doing. So yes, I’m working at Walmart in the deli, but it still represents me, which represents a lot of other people,” expressed Beard.