Q: Explain your 'track and field journey'... (How did you get into running, how did your senior season go, and how did you get connected with the college that you are going to?)
A: I started in 2nd grade. I ran the MSE mile for P.E. all the time, and sometimes during recess I would ask to run laps. My P.E. teacher told my parents a running club, and signed me up for Peak Performance XC/track club that season. My senior season went really well. Even if it ended shortly due to injury. My teammates and I broke many school records, and I broke a barrier I thought I never would have broken. Like sub 16 in the 5k. I didn't know much about William Carey at that time, but they came to our school and we had a meeting. They had the best impression out of any of the coaches I've talked too.
Q: What is your most memorable meet/race and why?
A: Breaking sub 10 in the 3200. Although I only did it once, I broke it my sophomore year. I would say that it was an eye opener. First big race really. I went in the race with a 10:27 pr I believe, and ran 9:56. My coach didn't even believe me when I told him I broke sub 10. It was a confidence booster, I learned I could run with the big dogs that year. Which helped me prep for my junior/senior year.
Q: Out of all your high school achievements, which one means the most to you and why?
A: Breaking sub 16 in the 5k. Mainly because I'm more of a track guy, and my XC record was pretty bad. I would have 2 good races and then get injured for the rest of the season. But breaking sub 16, it was a shocker. I was only hoping to get mid 16's that year, however I had a breakout season. It showed that anything was possible with the right mindset and smart training.
Q: If you could go back and do it all over again, what would you change, if anything?
A: I would take strength training more serious. So I wouldn't get injured as much. I would also spend more time with the team.
Q: Who is somebody that you look up to/someone that helped you along your journey to get you where you are today?
A: Philip Wright
Q: What will you miss the most?
A: The memories made on the travel trips with the team, and seeing everyone pr and break barriers of their own.
Q: What piece of advice would you give to the younger athletes that are just getting started on their journey?
A: Running is not just an individual sport, it's also a team sport. Do your part as an individual athlete, while also being a team player. Take training serious, be focus, be consistent and have a positive mindset. But also, make time to make memories, have fun and be with your team.
