Issue link: https://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1068002
31 T rack and field sprinter Antonio Woodard opened his junior season in December at the Jimmy Grant Invitational with a University of Iowa Recreation Building record in the 300 meter dash (32.89), but it wasn't the only stage he took that week. When he isn't dashing toward the finish line, the 2018 All-American and Big Ten champion is part of the all-male choir, Intersection. e group held its winter concert the Friday before the Hawkeye's season opener. Woodard is the president of the group and has come a long way from being a quiet kid with a hidden talent. "Growing up, I was always extremely shy and timid when it came to music and singing," Woodard said. "Around middle school and high school, I started to utilize the gi that God gave me." Woodard began to embrace singing in high school, including auditioning for "e Voice" his junior year. "I almost made it to the live round of auditions, but the day it was on, a good friend of mine's dad passed away and the family wanted me to sing at the funeral," Woodard said. "e funeral took priority." When it was time to head to college, there wasn't much worry for Woodard when he moved from Rancho Cucamonga, California, to Iowa since he knew singing, along with track, would follow him. When a bad break on the track led to a lost freshman season, Woodard made the most of a surplus of free time. "I had surgery on my knee, and I knew I had a lot of time on my hands aer redshirting," Woodard said. "I auditioned for three acapella groups thinking I would get in one. Luckily, I got in all three. I narrowed that down to one — Intersection. It fits my style and passion for music." Intersection has performed for sorority events, luncheons, weddings, and even for United States of America President Barack Obama during a visit to Iowa City in 2012. Woodard can be found at various Iowa sporting events where he sings the national anthem. "I have sang the national anthem 10 times at Iowa," Woodard said. "Most recently, I sang at the Iowa- Wisconsin men's basketball game Nov. 29." When it comes to balancing track and acapella, Woodard is thankful that it works out. "ankfully, everything just fits," Woodard said. "Our scheduled rehearsals and concerts don't conflict too much with track. I don't think it's difficult and I enjoy it. I knew what I signed up for." Fans can watch Woodard on the track at the Hawkeye Invitational on Jan. 11-12 inside the University of Iowa Recreation Building or head to uiowaintersection.com for information on his acapella group. JANUARY SCHEDULE Jan. 11-12 Hawkeye Invitational Jan. 18-19 Larry Wieczorek Invitational Jan. 25-26 Black & Gold Premier