Rafaella Gibbons isn't afraid of competition. She won the middle school state championships in cross country two years and picked up an outdoor middle school state title on the track running a record time of 10:10.50. Other than the state meet, the incoming Winter Park freshman had to compete unattached against older runners, high school age, and even some collegiates. 
This past weekend, she headed out west to Humble, Texas the site of the USATF National JO Track & Field Championships where she finished runner-up in the 3,000m for the 13-14 year old age group. Winter Park coach Kristin McWilliams, says with little preparation, Gibbon's performance was impressive.
"She ran 10:26.06. Her best was 10:10.50 at the middle school state meet, but she's been training for cross country with our team and not just focused on track. I had her do three track workouts to prepare for that, but also took her cross country training into consideration. She raced following a hard week of running at Brevard Running Camp."
Gibbons who finished fourth at last year's USATF JO's in the 3,000m is proud of her accomplishment and says it is a great way to end her middle school career.
"USATF Nationals attracts many of the top distance runners in the country and this is my second year running in the 3,000m race. I'm so blessed to finish second this year after finishing fourth last year. I was so excited to finish my middle school racing experience here."
Now that middle school is over and track season has come to an end, it is time to start focus on her first love, cross country. Gibbons, who arguably the most talented freshman distance runner coming into the high school ranks, says she is ready to compete for the Wildcats.
As ready as she is, so is Coach Kristin McWilliams who is delighted to have her. She describes "Raffey" as very fit and extremely coachable and says she takes care of the little details like any true champion.
"I am super excited to have her as a part of the team. She fits in well with the other girls.She pushes our talented top seven and motivates them to achieve their personal and mutual team goals. Like her teammates, she is fun, hard working, kind, silly, motivated, dedicated and awesome!"
Also of note was Trinity Prep 8th grader Myles Schreck. Shreck finished with a bronze medal and a new personal best throw of 149'11". Eighth grade is the last year in which males throw the 1k discus. His throw makes him one of the top middle school throwers in the state of Florida and nationally and is a great middle school farewell for him as well. Schreck gives thanks to his Trinity Prep coaches as well as Andy Vince of the NTC for helping him reach this achievement.
More Coverage
- Rafaella's Athlete Profile
- Myle's Athlete Profile
- USATF National JO Outdoor Track and Field Championship (Meet Page)
