Raised in the small East Texas town of Garrison, Justen grew up farming, working as a ranch hand, and competing in multiple sports. Life in a tight-knit community taught him discipline, resilience, and faith early on. Those values would define both his athletic journey and his life mission.

His belief that the Olympics were possible started long before he stepped onto a professional track. Watching his cousin, Olympic hurdler Eric Thomas, compete on the world stage planted a seed of belief: someone from here can do that.

Later, mentorship and encouragement from Eric confirmed what Justen had quietly felt all along, that his speed wasn’t ordinary, and neither was his calling.

Justen served in the U.S. military as part of one of the most deployed units during a defining era of modern conflict. Service strengthened his discipline, perspective, and gratitude, and when he returned home, he began pursuing track seriously.

Even before professional training, signs pointed toward his potential. He won three city-league flag football championships and consistently drew attention for his speed. One chance conversation with a stranger in Texas, who simply noticed how fast he was, became a defining moment. Encouragement from others ignited belief within himself.

His journey hasn’t been easy. He tore his quad running a 4.3 forty-yard dash at a free-agent football combine. He survived emergency surgery that nearly cost him his life. Faced months-long recovery after another vehicle suddenly crashed into his, which happened right before training was set to begin for the 2026 Winter Olympics, eliminating his chance at fulfilling the US Bobsled Team Invitation he'd received.

Each setback became confirmation of his purpose. He came back. He kept running.

Because for Justen, running isn’t just competition. It’s calling.