In a season filled with record-breaking performances, dazzling speed, and unwavering determination, one name has stood out on the collegiate track and field stage — Aaliyah Butler. From being a high school sensation to claiming national titles, Butler’s rise has now culminated in one of the most prestigious honors in collegiate athletics: the 2025 Honda Sport Award for Track and Field.
The Honda Sport Award, presented annually by the Collegiate Women Sports Awards (CWSA), recognizes the top female athlete in 12 NCAA-sanctioned sports. For track and field, it honors not only competitive excellence but also leadership, academics, and character. This year, the choice was clear.
At just 21, Butler has already cemented her place in collegiate history. Her 49.26-second sprint at the NCAA Outdoor Championships wasn’t just a personal best — it became one of the fastest times in NCAA history, placing her among the all-time greats. Representing the University of Georgia, Butler swept the 400m and helped anchor the school’s 4×400m relay team to gold, further solidifying her dominance in both individual and team events.
Her accomplishments didn’t stop at the college level. Earlier in the season, Butler competed at the U.S. Olympic Trials, where she earned a silver medal and went on to represent Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, advancing to the semi-finals in the 400m and capturing gold as part of the women’s 4×400m relay squad.
Butler’s journey began in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she broke state records while still in high school. Known for her smooth stride and fearless finishes, she quickly became one of the most talked-about young athletes in the sport. Coaches, commentators, and fans alike have marveled at her ability to blend raw speed with race intelligence beyond her years.
Beyond the track, Butler has also impressed with her humility, focus, and leadership. Balancing intense training with academic excellence and community outreach, she has become a role model for younger athletes — proving that greatness comes from more than just what happens on race day.
Receiving the Honda Sport Award is a testament to her incredible season — and her even brighter future. As the world of track and field turns its eyes toward the next Olympic cycle and global competitions, Aaliyah Butler is no longer just a promising sprinter. She’s a proven champion, a national icon in the making, and the new face of American 400m excellence.
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