The 2014-2015 school year has provided some great highlights in both cross country and track across the Sunshine State. In the coming weeks many of our seniors will head out to start their college careers both athletically and academically. We wanted to salute them one more time in this special feature and say thank you for your support over the years.
What was your most memorable race/moment?
Of all my races, the one that stands out to me was when we won the state cross country meet this fall. We had lost the week before to Leon and we weren't even sure if we could win, but everyone came through. I not only had one of my best races, but all my teammates did. The trophy and medals afterwards made it one of the most memorable moments of high school.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My biggest competition was my teammates. Every single one of them has pushed me to another level. They were not just my competition on the track, but at school. They made me smarter and faster.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I went out for soccer my freshman year and did not run cross country. If I could go back I would start running that summer, not at Christmas time. I think I could have been slightly better.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
I am fortunate in the case that I never have had a serious injury. My biggest obstacle was trying to balance my schooling with running. I took 6 APs my junior year and kept running and it exhausted me. I never truly balanced my schedule and it cost me in school and in running. I have somewhat got the hang of it now and hope to do better in college.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss my teammates most of all of high school. They have been my closest friends these last four years. Going to school and running without will be a daunting task.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
Sleep is just as important as training. The speed day that kills you won't help if you don't sleep well that night. Plan your day and make sure you get sleep, it is easy to forget about it.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
Coach Gowan has been more than just a coach to me, he has been a teacher. I have learned perseverance, dedication, and a degree of stubbornness from him. He has helped me become who I am today and I will always be grateful for that.
What are your college plans?
I will be attending FSU and running on the track and cross country team there.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to where I am. I owe my success to them.
Chiles High:
- 2013 State Runner-Up CC
- 2014 State Champion T&F
- 2014 State Champion CC
- 2015 State Champion T&F
Seniors, don't be left out! Submit your Salute to Seniors answers to Todd.Grasley@flosports.tv and be featured on the site!