Inez Turner’s winning legacy at Fayetteville State University (FSU) continued to grow on Monday as she led the Broncos to their fifth CIAA Women’s Indoor Track & Field Championship title. The Olympic athlete-turned-Hall of Fame coach stood before the media, filled with gratitude and pride, celebrating the athletes and coaching staff who made the victory possible.

Turner, who represented Jamaica at the 1996 and 2000 Olympic Games, has become one of the most respected figures in collegiate athletics. As she basked in yet another title win, Fayetteville State shone the spotlight on her accomplishments in recognition of Black History Month, highlighting her journey from the track to becoming one of the most successful coaches in CIAA history.

Turner, never one to take success for granted, was emotional as she reflected on the team’s remarkable achievement, acknowledging the hard work and sacrifices of her student-athletes and coaching staff.

"I am beyond proud and truly grateful to my God who gives me favour to lead with Him by my side in every moment of this journey," Turner posted on Facebook following the championship victory.

"Even in the midst of this journey, when tested and tried, the victory gets sweeter. This, our fifth indoor championship, was nothing but God leading us. Our student-athletes and coaches buy into the program's vision and execute the end goal. All praises to the Most High God!"

Standing before her triumphant team, Turner’s passion and energy radiated as she showered praise on her athletes.

"First of all, I want to give a huge shout-out to the team to beat! When you can have a program that keeps winning over and over and over again, it is just a blessing, baby," she declared to rousing applause.

"But without these youngsters, without these big-hearted people, it wouldn't be possible. I just want to thank God, first and foremost, for another championship."

While winning has become a habit under Turner’s leadership, she emphasized that each title is unique and deeply cherished.

"Even though we keep winning championships, every one of them is very special. When you can have a team where almost 95 per cent of your athletes set new personal records (PRs), when they are asked to do three, four, even five events—that's another big blessing."

She credited her dedicated coaching staff for helping to build a culture of resilience, discipline, and hard work.

"I just want to give a shout-out to my coaching staff. Without them, this would not happen. I want to thank you for getting the mission done, for coming the length of the way with me, (and) for giving me strength when I need it. Thank you so much."

Turner’s impact at Fayetteville State extends beyond athletic success. Under her leadership, her athletes have excelled both on the track and in the classroom.

"Everybody in the world knows it’s not always a bed of roses to win and win and win, and to continue leading at the best of your ability. But God makes everything possible," Turner said.

"The good thing about this is that we have a program and a team that listens, that does their part, that pushes themselves, that comes to training day by day. Not only are they champions on the track, but they also have a 3.6 GPA. So we are winners on the track and in the classroom, and that’s huge!"

Turner made sure to recognize Fayetteville State’s Athletic Director, Anthony 'Todd' Bennett, for his unwavering support in helping the program thrive.

"Without Mr. Bennett, who is a true leader, none of this would happen. And we also want to thank the media—you guys make us look good, baby!"

As Fayetteville State celebrated another CIAA championship, the university also took a moment to recognize Turner’s impact and legacy in honour of Black History Month.

In a special tribute, the school highlighted her illustrious career as an athlete and coach, acknowledging her 800m gold medal at the 1994 Commonwealth Games, her participation in two Olympic Games, and her induction into the FSU and CIAA Hall of Fame.

"We celebrate our heroes and those who have paved the way for us to continue to thrive," FSU’s statement read.

Turner’s story is one of determination, perseverance, and excellence. Her ability to lead, inspire, and develop young athletes has cemented her place among the greatest figures in collegiate athletics.

As she continues to push boundaries, break records, and uplift those around her, Inez Turner remains a beacon of excellence in sports and education, proving that success is not just about winning titles, but about shaping lives.