Mr. Dewitt Thomas has been heavily involved with the sport of track and field in the state of Alabama since 1981. He founded the Alabama Striders Youth Track Program, (formerly the Marvel City Striders) in Bessemer, Alabama in 1982. Since its inception, The Striders have become a nationally-ranked age group track and field program, while producing countless state and regional championships. The program produced 10 individual national champions and 50 student athletes who reached "Age Group All American." As a team The Striders have won 7 national titles. Mr. Thomas has helped to develop school programs at the elementary, middle and high school level. Over 300 of his former student athletes have gone to compete at the junior college and collegiate levels. Seven time NCAA All American Vonetta Jeffrey (UAB) and 1998 NCAA 200 meter champion Curtis Perry (LSU) are just two athletes he has helped guide to great post-high school success. His tireless efforts have helped elevate the sport both statewide and nationally. In January 1999 he stated, "I am looking forward to Alabama Track and Field Magazine to continue my passion of promoting and assisting our great sport."