Fastest Sailor in the Fleet
YNSN Martin is an Olympic sprinter who has transitioned from team USA to team U.S. Navy
02 September 2014
The boots are cleaned and polished. The feet inside, however, betray a secret. They belong to Yeoman Seaman Rodney Martin, and are arguably the fastest in the Navy.
While there has been no official race bestowing the title of "fastest Sailor in the U.S. Navy," it's safe to assume that only one Sailor has been clocked running the 100 meters in under 10 seconds and the 200 meters in under 20 seconds. An elite few American sprinters have accomplished such a feat, and one of them is now proud to call himself a U.S. Navy Sailor.
YNSN Martin is an Olympic sprinter who has transitioned from team USA to team U.S. Navy.
A terrified Martin stepped out onto the track for the first time during the 2008 Beijing Olympics. It was a familiar scene but now one of an entirely new magnitude. After looking up into the stands and hearing the chants of U ... S... A from the fans wearing red, white and blue, Martin realized that this event was different. It was bigger than him.
Martin's story is unique and quite remarkable but is also a direct example of the diverse experiences and backgrounds that make up the Sailors throughout the fleet.
"Not only the Navy but the world is filled with amazing people with amazing stories from all different walks of life. I feel like I'm just one of them, I put my boots on one foot at a time just like every other Sailor," said Martin.
Martin quickly found his passion shielded him from many of the negative influences that surrounded his childhood.
"When I think about what really got me on the right path, I can honestly and truthfully say that track and field saved my life."
Martin is excited about the opportunities the Navy presents and is looking forward to representing his country again, this time as a uniformed service member.
"I've met some amazing people in the Navy," said Martin. "Some brave young men and women in this organization and I'm looking forward to making friends and learning everything I can about the Navy and seeing how I can contribute to the world."
Martin is currently pursuing the Navy's World Class Athlete Program with hopes to again represent his country in track and field, but this time on behalf of the U.S. Navy.
"To represent your country in any magnitude is a blessing. And to give back to your country through your service is a blessing for any man," said Martin.
For more information on the all navy sports or world class athlete programs go to
http://www.navyfitness.org/all-navy_sports/frequently_asked_questions/