Paving The Way: Leisa Davis-Knowles' Impact On OSU Track And Field

Photo by: OSU Athletics

Paving The Way: Leisa Davis-Knowles' Impact On OSU Track And Field

February 06, 2022 | Cowgirl Cross Country & Track

As we venture through Black History Month, it's important to honor the legacy of those that paved the way in Oklahoma State athletics. Leisa Davis-Knowles did that and more during her time as a Cowgirl.

Knowles is a key part of the history of Oklahoma State Athletics as she would become the first Black female All-American in OSU's track and field program during her time in Stillwater, opening the door for more athletes to follow in her footsteps.

Fresh off being an Olympic Festival Champion and an All-American in the 400m hurdles in 1985, Knowles made it to Stillwater ready to leave her mark on OSU Athletics.

And left her mark she did.

In 1985, Knowles won two Big 8 conference championships in two different events. At the indoor conference championships, she finished first in the 440-yard race with a time of 54.14. A couple months later at the outdoor conference championships, Knowles placed first in the 400m hurdles with a time of 57.75.

After a record-breaking year in 1985, Knowles was ready to break even more records and win more conference championships in 1986.

During the indoor season, she earned All-America honors once again, but in the 500m this time. Not content with two All-American honors, she strived and pushed herself to eventually become a three-time All-American.

Heading into the outdoor season that year, Knowles won two Big 8 conference championships, in the 100m with a time of 11.65 and in the 400m hurdles with a time of 56.88. Off the back of those two conference championships, she completed her goal of being a three-time All-American when she earned those honors in the 400m hurdles.

Knowles still currently holds two records in the record book at OSU, in the 600-yard race and the 400m hurdle, with times of 1:20.41 and 55.70, respectively. Without her bravery, courage and determination, Oklahoma State Athletics would not be where it is today, as Knowles left behind an incredible legacy and set a great example for future generations.

For more information on Knowles and other Oklahoma State trailblazers, continue to check back with okstate.com.