What was your most memorable race/moment?
The 2013 4A regional cross country race was my most memorable moment. I had the opportunity to race with some of the best runners in the state of Florida. It was also the first time in five years since any runner from my school has qualified to move on to regionals.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My biggest competition was definitely my own teammates. Kevin Johnson who is also a senior, has been my competition since day one. There was never a time when we didn’t push each other at practice or in a race. Also, all of the local schools in Lake County were always great competition.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment was being awarded MVP for cross country in 2013 and then later being awarded MVP for track and field 2014. It made me realize how much all that hard work and determination paid off over time.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
If I could do it all over again, I would have taken cross country and track a lot more seriously my freshman and sophomore years. I would have spent a lot more time training and getting faster. I didn’t realize high school running was going to be over so quick.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacles were always the ones I put in front of myself. A lot of times it was finishing a tough workout in 90 degree heat. Other times it was trying to stay relaxed before a race or trying to set a new PR. Breaking five minutes in the mile was an obstacle I didn’t overcome until senior year.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss myteam, my coaches, always getting to race at different venues, setting PR’s, and of course winning.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?
If this is something you love to do then keep on running. Never quit just because it hurts, you’ll never know your true potential unless you’re willing to take a little pain.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coach always encouraged me to do my best. He would train us hard so that we could win easy. In life it taught me that if you’re going to do something, always be prepared.
What are your college plans?
My plan is to go to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona and major in Aerospace Engineering. Also if I’m lucky, walk-on their cross country team.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I’d like to thank my cross country coach Tim Ferrell for always being there to train and motivate me and getting me to where I am today. I’d also like to thank Kevn Johnson. Thanks for being a great teammate all these years. We’ve been through everything together. Last but not least, I’d like to thank my girlfriend, Natalie Silva. Thank you so much for always supporting me and being my number one fan.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I’m glad I decided to take running up as a sport. I never knew I’d be so successful. It taught me many values and created many memories.
More Coverage
Do you know a class of 2014 track and field or cross country athlete? We'd like to salute them! Have them answer the following questions plus send 2-3 photos (can not be from another website or publication) to Todd.Grasley@flocasts.com.