Carlin Thompson is a Chickasaw speaker and dedicated language preservationist. He is also a remarkable athlete who ran track and field for Ada High School from 1969-1972.

Thompson won individual state championships in the 220-yard dash and 440-yard dash for three consecutive years. During his time with Ada track and field, he also led the team to four state championships. As a high school athlete in the state of Oklahoma, he accomplished breaking 48 seconds in the 440-yard dash. He met the state record with a time of 47.9 seconds. In 2009, Sequoyah High School honored Thompson by naming their 400-meter race “The Carlin Thompson 400.” The plaque, dedicating the race to him, names him the “Greatest Native American Sprinter.”

In addition to his notable athletic career, Thompson is a devoted member of the Chickasaw Language Committee. As an original member, he has been instrumental in establishing methods for preserving Chickasaw vocabulary. He has co-authored several books and served in numerous workshops in Oklahoma and the historic Chickasaw Homeland. Thompson is featured on Chickasaw.TV, Chickasaw Nation Culture and Humanities YouTube channel and the Chickasaw Times. He was highlighted in the 2026 Chickasaw calendar celebrating Chickasaw speakers.

Through hard work and commitment, Thompson has honed his talents and inspired many fellow athletes. He continues to carry his Chickasaw heritage forward by sharing his language and culture with others.