Salute To Seniors: Troy Clark - Mount Dora Bible School

 

What was your most memorable race/moment?

 

My most memorable race would have to be last year at the flrunners.com Invitational. It was the first race ever that I broke 16 minutes. I ran a 15:44 and cracked into the top ten. It was an amazing feeling!

 

Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?

 

My biggest competition would have to be the guys from Holy Trinity and Trinity Prep. They always have teams stacked with great runners and it’s great to mix it up with them on most weekends. Also, this last year Franco Martins was a big competitor who dominated 1A this year. He’s a great runner. I wish I had one more year to compete against him.

 

What was your greatest accomplishment?

 

My greatest accomplishment would be breaking 15:45 in the 5K and finishing second in state in the 3200m.

 

If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

 

I would be more focused on specific training. My week spot was always speed and I didn’t work specifically on it enough. I became too focused on mileage and not on actually becoming faster. Everybody’s body is different and responds differently to training. The key is learning what works best for your body and it isn’t always just high mileage. The state champion isn’t always the one who runs the most miles, but who is able to run his discipline the fastest at the state meet.

 

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

My biggest obstacle was injuries. I’ve had many.

 

What will you miss the most?

 

I will miss my team. I’ve had so many great memories with them!

 

What advice would you give to younger athletes?

 

When you are injured go to a running doctor who has had experience in the running field. I had an injury me senior year that sidelined me for over two months before track because I didn’t go to a doctor who really understood my injury. It is also important to run for something greater than yourself. For me it is God. I believe God has given me my abilities in running and it is important I glorify Him through running. Plus, when my focus is on God I run much better! Finally, always listen to your body. Sometimes taking a day off far outweighs a month off because of an injury.

  

What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?

 

My coach has had a great influence over life goals and my performance. They always want what is best for me and they also make sure my focus is always on God! They are way more than just coaches. I have personal relationships with every one of them and I can talk to them about anything. They are the best!

 

What are your college plans?

 

I will be attending Florida Gulf Coast University to run cross country. GO EAGLES!

 

Who would you like to say thank you to?

 

I would like to thank God, my family, coaches, and everyone who has ever supported me. You guys are the best and I couldn’t have accomplished nearly as much without you guys!