Hartselle’s very own hometown hero came home this past week after her journey to the Olympics took her halfway across the world to compete for a spot on Team USA this summer.  

Burks spoke at the William Bradford Huie Library Oct. 1 about her experiences becoming an Olympian and her journey to Tokyo.  

“To come back now and see so many familiar faces is so amazing because I know I’m an Olympian, but I feel like we are all Olympians because everyone has played a part in my life,” Burks said through tears. “You know what I’ve been through in my life, and to be able to say now, ‘We did it’ – I did it, but we all did it. 

“It took the entire community to help raise me, supporting me while playing basketball, while running track in high school and even at Alabama. I get emotional because it’s honestly been a dream.”  

Burks said even while in Tokyo, she read every message of support she received from her friends, family and fans back home in Hartselle.  

“I don’t think you guys understand: Every text message, every post you guys sent me that said ‘We’re proud of you regardless,’ – they helped because so many lose focus at the Olympics,” she said.  

“I’m so proud to be from this amazing community. Without you guys knowing me as Quanesha Burks, I wouldn’t be where I am.” 

Burks also made a stop at Hartselle High School Friday during the school’s pep rally and thanked her supporters.  

She said she plans to travel back to Louisiana soon to begin training for the 2024 Olympics, which will be held in Paris.