merry johnson - track and field athlete of the year 1977, 1982
Merry Johnson - Canyon & West Texas State University
Why Honored: Johnson was a star athlete at Canyon High School. In track, she earned six gold medals and three silver medals at the state level. She set a national record in the 440-yard dash. She also helped lead the team to three state team titles.
Johnson continued her career at West Texas State University. While there, she set the record for the 400 meters. Her time of 52.34 still stands as the school record.
In 1982, Johnson was the ALAW National Champion in the 400 meters and the 200 meters. In 1983, she ran the third leg of the 4x4 South Team in the Pre-Olympics, winning a bronze medal and qualified for the Olympic Trials in 1984.
