From Cell Phones to World Championship Glory: Cordell Tinch’s Remarkable Comeback

By Correia Alves, World Athletics/AIPS Media Academy Reporter

TOKYO, September 17, 2025 – Just moments before each race, Cordell Tinch engages in a unique ritual: he bites down on two silver chains, a grounding practice that keeps him focused as he prepares for the starting gun.

“That’s what keeps me grounded,” he explains. “While some athletes shake or slap themselves for motivation, I use my necklace as a reminder of my family and where I want to be.” These chains—a gift from his mother, Elizabeth Simmons, and his grandmother, Dorothy—symbolize the support system that has propelled him to the pinnacle of the 110m hurdles championship.

Though his mother could not be present at the Japan National Stadium to witness Tinch secure his first world title with a time of 12.99 seconds, her influence remains ever-present in his life.
“My mother is my biggest rock,” he says, reflecting on their deep bond. “On my bad days, she’s the first person I call, and on my best days, she’s the first to hear my news.”

Elizabeth’s resilience laid the groundwork for Tinch’s determination. As a teenage mother who overcame homelessness, she instilled in him the strength to persevere through life’s challenges.

Five years ago, Tinch faced a significant setback. After a problematic college transfer rendered him ineligible to compete at the Nationals for the Kansas Jayhawks, he battled not only the disappointment of lost opportunities but also the mental health struggles exacerbated by the pandemic.

During this period, he temporarily walked away from both athletics and academia, taking odd jobs to support himself.

“I completely disconnected from the sport,” Tinch recalls. “For three years, I was selling cell phones, watches, and working in a paper factory in Green Bay, Wisconsin. It felt like I was close to never coming back.”

Yet, looking back, Tinch recognizes that this break was crucial for his growth as both an athlete and an individual.

“Mental health plays a significant role in track and field. Even when people saw a talented athlete, I struggled to carry the weight of representing an entire country,” he admits.

While attempting to rediscover himself, a pivotal moment occurred when he discussed sports with his father while watching the 2020 NCAA Outdoor Championships.

“My dad joked that I might not have it anymore,” he recalls, reflecting on their playful banter. Inspired, they went to a nearby track where, after rummaging to find his running shoes, Tinch timed himself at 13.27 seconds—a reminder of his innate talent.

However, it wasn’t until late 2022 that a conversation with his roommate, Treyvon Ferguson, reignited his athletic aspirations.
“Treyvon said he was heading to Pitt State and that he would recommend me to the coach,” Tinch says. “I thought to myself, ‘I’ll give it a shot.’”

Under the guidance of Coach Kyle Rutledge, Tinch received a second chance with a dose of realism.

“He told me he was unsure what to expect given my absence from competition,” Tinch recalls. “But he was willing to give me the opportunity.” This support became instrumental in Tinch’s journey back to the track.

“When I first returned, my goal was simply to secure my education,” Tinch says. “But just six months later, I realized I was on track to something much greater.” It was during a meet at Washburn in Kansas when the gun sounded, and Tinch felt an overwhelming sense of belonging once again; “I knew I was back where I was meant to be.”

In a remarkable turn of events, Tinch went on to become a Diamond League winner, a finalist, and a historic fourth all-time in the 110m hurdles with a time of 12.87 seconds—the best time of 2025—culminating in his gold medal victory at the World Championships. More importantly, he rediscovered his sense of self.

Embracing His Journey
“Many around me insisted I was meant for greater things, making it challenging to believe them when I struggled with self-doubt,” Tinch reflects. “Working a variety of jobs helped me understand that while those experiences were enjoyable, the journey to rediscover myself was paramount.”

With a gold medal around his neck and a flag draped over his shoulders, Tinch embodies a powerful message encapsulated by a tattoo on his right arm: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” He has truly embraced this mantra, inspiring others through the strength of his journey.