Ola Sesay Abbott

Ola (Sesay) Abbott, born in the US to Sierra Leonean parents, proudly represented Sierra Leone at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, where she had the honor of being the flagbearer during the Parade of Nations.

Growing up in Maryland, Ola attended Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Maryland, where she excelled as a student-athlete. Not only was she a multiple State champion in various events, but she was also named Athlete of the Year in 1997.

In 1997, Ola clinched the Maryland state championship titles in the 100m high hurdles, the long jump, and the 300m hurdles, and in 1996, she secured the 100m hurdles championship as well. Ola was a versatile athlete, participating in the 100m and 4x100m relays. Alongside her athletic achievements, she maintained an impressive academic record and was a member of the National Honor Society.

Her outstanding performances at Roosevelt High School earned her an athletics scholarship at the University of North Carolina, where she continued to excel. In 2000, Ola set a new long jump record during the ACC Indoor Championships and claimed first place. She repeated this success at the Outdoor championships that same year, achieving season's bests in the 100 Meters Hurdles and the Triple Jump. Ola's exceptional performances at the USCTFS in Chapel Hill earned her four medals, including 1st place in the long jump and triple jump, and 2nd place in the long jump (20-9) at the Carolina Classic. She was also honored with the Fetzer Scholarship Award.

Having retired from competitive athletics, Ola now thrives as a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a successful real estate agent.