In the News: APU Alumnus Bryan Clay Speaks at Republican National Convention

On Thursday, September 4, Azusa Pacific University alumnus and Olympic champion Bryan Clay ’03 spoke at the 2008 Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minnesota. 

Clay focused on the importance of support when you're competing, whether you are a decathlete or a politician. He shared about the support he receives from his family, friends, and coaches, in addition to the support of his friend and fierce competitor, 2004 Olympic gold medalist Roman Sebrele of the Czech Republic.

Clay spoke about his values: God first, family second, and track third. He shared that although he is proud to have won an Olympic gold, “My proudest accomplishment is being a dad to my son, Jacob, and my daughter, Katherine.”

“I can tell you that without my faith in God, and the support of my family and friends, and my strong work ethic, I would not be standing before you today, wearing this gold medal around my neck,” said Clay.

He closed his speech by encouraging the audience to adhere to their values. “Now whether your platform is a classroom, a conference room, a track, or the White House, we must all stay true to our principles. Whether you’re a decathlete or a politician, we must stand together and believe in each other, and in this great nation.”

Clay, who earned a Bachelor of Social Work from APU, is the 2008 Olympic decathlon gold medalist. He took home the silver in the decathlon in the 2004 Games in Athens. Clay is ranked first in the United States and sixth in the world, and scored a personal best 8,832 points at the 2008 Olympic Trials.