TUCSON, Ariz- Ever since the age of 12, senior Arizona track star Sage Watson knew exactly what she wanted to be when she grew up: an Olympian. Today the senior hurdler is able to say she accomplished her dreams having competed for her native country of Canada in the 2016 Summer Games. Looking back, she knows the road to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil this past summer wasn't easy either.

"Becoming an Olympian doesn't happen over night, doesn't happen over a year and even doesn't happen over four years." Watson said. "Becoming an Olympian for me was a lifelong journey. My teachers, coaches, friends and most importantly family all believed in me from a very young age. If it wasn't for all the individuals throughout my life who guided me, believed in me, and inspired me I wouldn't be where I am today."

Watson previously competed for Florida State University where she was the ACC Champion in the 400-meter hurdles and a four-time All-American, but it is head coach Fred Harvey who Watson credits for helping her get over the hump to the Olympics. Watson transferred to Arizona prior to the 2015-16 season and has one more season of eligibility. 

"A major part of my Olympic success was because of the University of Arizona and coach Harvey, they gave me the opportunity and ability to train for the Olympics. Coach Harvey has done so much for me as an individual and athlete; I was very lucky to have him train me for the Olympics," Watson said.

Watson also expressed how important her family was and still is to her successes, that they are the backbone to everything she competes and trains for.

The Alberta, Canada native competed in two events in the Olympics, the 400-meter hurdles and the 4x400-meter relay. In the 400-meter hurdle Watson placed 11th overall, just missing the finals. In the 4x400-meter relay Watson just missed on receiving a medal where Team Canada was finished in fourth-place, missing the podium by less than a second. This was just her first go-around, however, and Watson has full intentions on returning to the Olympics in 2020 to capture a medal in both respective events.

The experience proved to be beneficial to Watson, who got to experience everything she thought it would be in more. The atmosphere was something that stood out to her and reminded her of how different the Olympics are from collegiate competition.

"The atmosphere at the Olympic games is completely different compared to any other athletic competition I have been to." Watson said. "At the Olympics you have everyone from around the world coming together as one, putting political, religious, and economical views aside in order to celebrate sport and competition."

She knew there would be much more excitement surrounding the Olympics games, but that you can really feel the excitement in the moment that you are competing in. The highlight of her weekend came when she finally walked into the Olympic stadium. It was at that moment that she had realized that she made it, that she achieved her goals and was about to compete on the world's largest stage it has to offer.

Outside of competition, Watson was able to experience the uniqueness of Brazil, and it was something that she was happy to immerse herself in. 

"I got to experience the unique culture of Brazil and explore Rio." Watson said. "The closing ceremonies were one of the highlights of going to Rio. They shared their culture and let all the Olympic athletes be apart of it in a giant parade at the end of the ceremonies."

Watson can't wait to get to Tokyo, Japan for the 2020 Olympics, but in the meantime that will have to be set aside for what is right in front of her right now at Arizona and for Team Canada.

"This year my goals are to be a team leader for our track and field program, to win the 400 hurdles at the PAC 12 championships and to win a national championship. This summer I am preparing to represent Canada at the 2017 World Championships in London," Watson said.

Watson has gotten herself off to a great start in the 2017 season, having run the third-best time in the 400-meter sprint in the NCAA this season. Watson already holds school indoor records for the indoor 4x400-meter relay and the indoor 500-meter sprint.

At her rate, Watson is destined to have her name all over Arizona track's record book by the time it is all said and done.