Who is the Olympic medallist ‘Big Momma’ influential grandmother?

Sha’Carri Richardson has risen above the challenges to become one of the best American sprinters. Here is everything you need to know about her grandmother who has played a crucial role in Richardson’s meteoric rise.

Olympic 100m silver medallist Sha’Carri Richardson was born on March 2000 in Texas, United States and her career has been on an upward trajectory.

Richardson’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a world beater is largely down to her grandmother Betty Harp.

Betty Harp has stood by Richardson, playing a vital role in her career alongside her aunt Shayaria Richardson.


Noah Lyles’ journey to the top has not been without challenges but with support from his parents, he has risen above the struggles. Pulse Sports details everything you need to know about his parents.


Usain Bolt: Who are the parents of the world's fastest man alive?

Usain Bolt became a revered sprinter due to the strong foundations laid by his father and mother. Pulse Sports highlights everything you need to know about his parents.


Who is Sha’Carri Richardson’s grandmother?

Sha’Carri Richardson’s biological parents are unknown but she was raised by her grandmother Betty Harp whom she refers to as ‘Big Momma’. Richardson, 24, has not publicly spoken about her biological mother, except in 2021 when she revealed about her death during the Olympic trials.

Her father’s details haven’t been revealed. Details about Harp’s career are unknown while the exact age of Harp has not also been made public.

Influence on Richardson’s Career

Betty Harp’s words of encouragement  have pushed Sha’Carri Richardson towards the success she has achieved today.

In an interview, three years ago, Richardson revealed how she found her aunt’s medals on a plaque made by Harp and asked her grandmother for a similar one.



Sha’Carri Richardson

Harp replied: “Well you got to do something to get some medals!And honestly from then on it was just like, ‘If you want to do something, if you want to be great, you got to put your all into it,” Richardson recalled.

Biggest support system

Throughout Richardson collegiate and professional career, Harp has been her primary caregiver and biggest fan.

Richardson shared an emotional hug with her grandmother after winning the 100m title at the 2021 US Track and Field Olympic trials.

As soon as she received her flowers, she ran to the stands before falling her head on Harp’s shoulders.



Sha’Carri Richardson and her grandmother

Betty Harp has kept Richardson grounded yet inspired her to do better things in life. Richardson gave Harp another hug after qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games.

'One monkey does not stop no show' -Why Sha'Carri Richardson does not regret missing out on 100m Olympic gold

Sha’Carri Richardson has explained why she does not regret failing to win gold in the final of the 100 meters in Paris, a race she was widely expected to win.


'Mistakes and insecurities haunted me' - Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone on why husband Andre Levrone is special

Sydeny McLaughlin-Levrone has opened up about the unique trait that makes husband Andre special.


Sha’Carri Richardson’s success story stems from her grandmother’s support and her humble background is motivation enough to ensure that she rises above the challenges.