David Kilgore. Does that name ring a bell? Some people may remember him from his days as a state champion in the 1600 meters and 5000 meters as a talented distance runner for Holy Trinity. Others may recall his impressive 14:27 5K and 24:18 8K at Colorado where he was a reserve runner on the 2013 PAC 12 National Champion Buffalo cross country team. Kilgore identified this as his best running memory stating, “Just being on the national winning team was pretty exciting.” Despite all this success at Colorado, something was missing, and Kilgore will be representing the University of Florida this fall. What influenced his move? “I was having some financial issues out in Colorado, as well as I feel I wasn't performing up to my potential. I have no hard feelings to the Colorado program or anyone out there. I just had to move on to the next step in my life. So, I really believe that coming back to Florida and under the guidance of Coach Spangler I will be able to finish up my college experience at a great school and run some real fast times in the process.” Here are a few questions and answers to help you get to know the man behind the blue and orange jersey.
Talk about your initial reason to sign with the University of Colorado out of high school.
I chose the University of Colorado because I really thought it was the best place for me to grow as both a student and an athlete. I am still very grateful and happy about the time I spent out in Colorado. Also, at the beginning I was ready to be in a new place and leave the state of Florida for a while to see what else was out there.
Were the Gators a team you initially considered in 2011?
I never considered UF while being recruited to college. I looked at university of Auburn, University of Indiana, University of Colorado, and FSU. Like I said I am happy with my time out in Colorado, but am very grateful and excited that I am now at the University of Florida
How has being away from home changed you and how do you feel about being back in Florida as a Gator?
Being away from home made me realize how much I missed Florida and how much I really love it. What really makes it special though, is getting to come back home and run wearing the Florida jersey. Representing my home state in college does bring a new since of pride.
What have you enjoyed most about college so far?
I have enjoyed competing against such a high level of competition and meeting tons of new people.
What are some of your favorite things about UF and their cross country team?
I would say the guys on the team. Everyone since I have been here has been really welcoming and supportive. Not only that, but I really feel that I am becoming a lot faster and stronger here. That is really important to me.
Describe the atmosphere surrounding a college race. How does it compare to high school?
The college atmosphere I would say is much more intense. There is a lot more people and depth at every race. You have to push your way through the fields because of how packed most races are.
What are you majoring in?
I'm majoring in family youth community sciences. I chose that major because I love people and hope to work with them in the future as a coach.
Have you thought about your plans for after college?
My plans after college are to keep competing in the sport and hopefully at an elite level. However, if that isn't giving me enough money to sustain a living for myself and my family I would like to get into coaching.
What are your favorite things to do outside of running?
My favorite things to do outside of running would be any kind of outdoor adventure. I love going new places and exploring with friends or new people. Also, I love spending time with my beautiful fiancé Annie Kelly
Who is your role model?
A role model of mine would be my good buddy Alex Dunnam, but my biggest running idol is Bekele.
How have you remained humble despite your large amount of success?
I've stayed humble because I knew since I started running that being a fast runner doesn't make you a good person. I run because I personally enjoy it and want to be the best I can be at it and that's all that matters. Other than that I'm just a regular guy, I would never walk around like I'm some hot shot, even if I was.
Kilgore is a prime example of how to handle success and depicts the pinnacle image of a role model young athletes can look up to. His achievements are innumerable, his talent out of this world; however, his greatest attribute lies within his humility and deep concern for the welfare of others. His goal is to help his team and people in general. His passion for running is undeniable. He is a champion D1 college athlete who refers to himself as “just a regular guy,” but don’t count him out. He will definitely be someone to watch out for this cross country season and, as a junior, will be a great addition to the UF program.
