Promise Tubbs has always looked up to her mother, not just as a parent but as a living example of faith, grit and hard work. Those qualities now show up every time the Hollis High School senior steps onto the track in a Tiger uniform.
A Senior at Hollis, Tubbs is a key contributor for the varsity track and field team, competing in the 100-meter dash, high jump, 800-meter relay and 400-meter relay. She gravitates toward the speed and adrenaline of sprinting, but she also embraces the team aspect that comes with relay events.
“I enjoy doing what I love with friends because it’s fun and competitive,” Tubbs said.
In the classroom, Tubbs brings the same focus she shows on the track. Chemistry is her favorite subject, and she points to Mr. Patterson as her favorite teacher from any grade, a nod to the impact strong educators have had on her academic journey. That interest in science is shaping her future plans, too. After graduation, Tubbs plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in biochemistry.
Away from competition, Tubbs balances her life with creative outlets and quiet preparation. She loves singing and playing the piano, hobbies that let her express a different side of herself than the one fans see in spikes and a uniform. On meet days, she uses downtime between events to reset mentally and physically.
“I prepare for my next event by stretching and meditating,” she said.
Track and field has taught Tubbs lessons that stretch well beyond the straightaways and curves. She says the sport has instilled perseverance and discipline, traits she expects will serve her long after her high school career ends. She also leans on simple but important advice tailored to her events: learn how to condition properly and be ready when it is time to race or jump.
Even as a sprinter, Tubbs is still looking for new ways to challenge herself. One event on her wish list is the 400-meter run, a test that blends speed and endurance.
“I would love to try the 400-meter run,” she said. “I am a sprinter, but I have never tried sprinting any farther than 200 meters at a time.”
Rooted in faith, driven by her mother’s example and fueled by a love for competition with her teammates, Promise Tubbs is making the most of her final season at Hollis. Whether she is sprinting down the straightaway, clearing the bar in the high jump or leading off a relay, she is building a foundation for success that will carry her to Norman and beyond.
