St. Augustine senior Noah Kemp has decided to trade in the warm weather of Florida for the cooler damper climate of the pacific northwest. Kemp, who finished 7th at the 3A Cross Country Finals recently committed to the University of Portland. Find out why he picked the Pilots and what he is looking forward to the most.
How did you get started in the sport?
I started running for exercise in 8th grade because my dad ran some marathons. I ran my first 5K in 25 minutes. I joined the cross country team my freshman year and the rest is history.
How have you grown in four years as a runner?
Mentally, I have gained more confidence. Physically, I have been able to handle more mileage and harder workouts.
What was this year like for you?
This year was pretty good. After battling injuries and an iron deficiency for the past two years, this is the first season that everything has gone right. I trained a little more conservative than last track season to prevent injury, but I still accomplished my goals and had a good season.
Was there one race that really opened up your recruitment?
There wasn't any particular race that opened up recruitment, but last season when I ran a 9:29 (3,200 meters) one night and 4:23 (1,600 meters) the next day, that helped a lot.
What was the recruiting process like for you?
The process was fun yet I'm relieved that it's over at the same time. It wasn't too hectic but it was nerve wracking knowing that this decision will affect the rest of my life.
Where else did you consider?
I'm pretty sure I looked at every school in the country at first, but in the end it came down to NYU and Portland.
Why in the end the University of Portland?
I love that part of the country and the whole atmosphere out there. I also felt comfortable with the team and the coaches. I wanted to surround myself with a bunch of guys who took running seriously and were super motivated and driven. On my visit I found all these things I was looking for and knew I wanted to go there.
How did their location and recent success at NCAA's play a role?
I'm in love with the whole running atmosphere out there and it's super exciting to be apart of. Their recent success at NCAAs made me more sure of my commitment and even more excited to be going and training with a team that has tremendous potential in the next few years.
The weather in FL is a little different than that of Oregon. Are you ready for it?
I love the rainy and cold weather in Oregon! Honestly, I am really sick of the Florida heat and humidity and am ready to experience something new.
When you started running did you think that you'd be running in college?
In the very beginning, no. When I started getting serious about it, I knew running in college would be the most fun thing ever and it was something I had to do.
What are you looking forward to most about dawning the University of Portland jersey?
I am looking forward to representing a team with such tradition and high standards.
What kind of runner are they getting in Noah Kemp and what are your goals going forward?
They are getting a runner who will work really hard to be the best that he can be. A runner who is focused on the running but also on the peripherals and takes care of all the little things. My goal is to be the best student-athlete I can be for the next four years.
Personal Bests
- 1,600 Meter Run - 4:23.33
- 3,200 Meter Run - 9:29.83
- 5,000 Meter Run - 15:34.29
More Coverage
