Davon DeMoss, Kayla Beaver, Carita Cole, and Tarius Johnson are scheduled for induction into the Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame, when the 40th annual event is held at 6 p.m., Thursday, April 16, 2026 at the Carl Perkins Civic Center.
Terry Smith will be the recipient of the 2026 Billy Schrivner Distinguished Service Award.
Golden Media Group visited with Davon DeMoss for a Question & Answer session about her induction.
Question: First, a little background information – family, education, career?
Answer: Born and raised in Jackson with my parents and younger brother, and I graduated from Madison Academic in 2014. I went to the University of Memphis afterwards, and I walked onto the track team initially after one year and graduated in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice.
After college I decided to continue training to prep for the 2020 Olympics – however Covid postponed them until 2021. I joined the Memphis Police in 2022 and currently I am still an officer.
Question: What were your thoughts when you first learned you had been selected for induction into the 2026 Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame?
Answer: I was very excited to learn that I had been selected. I heard about the Hall of fame a couple years back and always thought it would be an honor to be a part of it! I love the idea of being able to leave a piece of legacy in my hometown.
Question: Your accomplishments overall are numerous. Can you think of a few that standout?
Answer: The first accomplishment that came to mind was running 10.05 in the 100 meter dash. A time that broke the previous school record at Memphis, and also gave me the Olympic A standard.
Another accomplishment that comes to mind is becoming an All-American, a title that eluded me until my senior year. I was able to end my collegiate career as a three-time All-American.
Question: What motivated you to not only run, but to excel in the sport, and what was the motivation to run – not just for pleasure or health – but for competition?
Answer: My motivation to run came from a passion I had as a child, but never fully realized until I entered college. I believe my motivation to excel came from wanting to be the best version of myself.
Question: What were your thoughts when COVID basically eliminated the possibilities of you participating in the Olympic Games?
Answer: I was devastated, extremely upset, and confused. I had taken countless Covid tests since the outbreak and I was also vaccinated to travel and compete in meets, and even practice testing was mandatory.
While at the Olympics trials in (Eugene) Oregon I had received my first ever positive result.
Question: As a police officer, you have been named the ‘World’s Fastest Cop.’ How did you earn this nickname?
Answer: I earned the World’s Fastest Cop title by competing in the bi-annual World Police and Fire games. In 2023 I competed in and won the 100 meter dash and set the record for the fastest time ever at the event.
Question: Would you give us an idea of what you will speak about when you are inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Answer: I plan to speak about my love for my hometown Jackson, how much it means for me to be inducted, and the importance of belief.
For tickets and reservations for the Jackson-Madison County Sports Hall of Fame event, call Beth Sedberry (731) 616-8558.
