Track champion signs with aviation college
Howard Walls spends much of his time in the air, so it's only fitting that he would want to become an Eagle.
Augusta Christian's Howard Walls sits between Renetta Walls (left) and Carolyn Ford as he signs a track scholarship to play at Embry-Riddle University.
Photo by Jim Blaylock
The Augusta Christian senior recently signed a track and field letter of intent with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
Walls, who began running track five years ago, spent part of his signing day in the Augusta Christian Schools fine arts building with family members and teammates. He chose the Eagles because the school combines both of his passions: running and flight.
Walls went undefeated this season in the 110-meter high hurdles, winning the state title and setting a new South Carolina Independent Schools Association state record.
"I hold the 110-meter high hurdle record with a time of 14.76 seconds," Walls said. "It is my favorite event because it's what I started with and I like the competition."
Walls was encouraged as an eighth-grader by a former basketball coach to give the hurdles a try. His efforts were rewarded: He won first place in his first meet at Briarwood Academy in Warrenton, Ga.
One can't help but see a parallel between Walls' career objective and athletic goals. Walls is currently training to get his pilot's license. He flew solo for the first time two weeks ago.
Walls said he is looking forward to the athletic competition of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics and hopes to continue to get his times down even more.
Walls was the high point-scorer for the Lions in their region meet and was region champ in the 110-meter hurdles and 100 meters.
He also competes in the long jump, the 200 meters and relay events.