Kicking Down The Competition

Matt Baum (flrunners.com): Jake, you had quite the race last Saturday placing 2nd right behind Coleman Hoover in the 4A State meet. Can you run us through that race?

Jake Wilke: Well, I knew going into the race that I had to beat my personal best to have any chance. Since I had done that at FLRunners Invite previously, I had my shot. The starting line was very crowded, and I had to jump to the front pack. By the mile split, it was just Coleman [Hoover], Bryan [Christian], and I. Then all of a sudden my shoe came untied! By the 2-mile, we broke away from Christian, who had been ranked ahead of me. I figured I needed to lead at that point and try to wear him out. Then, the last .1 his sprint was faster and it was over.

MB: I'm sure you were content with your finish. You walked away with a silver medal and a new personal record.

JW: Definitely! I accomplished something I've wanted for the longest time. He's [Coleman Hoover] a great runner, what can I say? I surprised myself that day!

MB: You made quite the breakout this fall. What did you do to prepare yourself for this season?

JW:Well, compared to other top runners, I ran what I think was sufficient miles. I averaged 75 miles a week. The everyday training is what set me from the rest of the pack.

MB: Who's your coach?

MB: I hear you came from California.

JW: Yes. My father was in the Navy, so we moved here to Coral Springs. He lived here when there was only Coral Springs High.

MB: How long ago was that?

MB: I also hear that you're a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.

JW: Yes sir! That was very gratifying to me, then I went on to win double-gold at Nationals to become National Champ.

MB: That's amazing! How long have you been doing Tae Kwon Do?

JW: I did it for 4 years, then I really got into running.

MB: Do you still do Tae Kwon Do or does running take up most of your time now?

JW: I stopped 2 years ago, even if I wanted to go back, running takes up most of my time.

MB: So, have you looked into any colleges?

JW: Yes, but I am still undecided. I really hope to go to UM or, my uncle graduated from FSU, I know they have a great running program at Florida State.

MB: WIll you be heading up to North Carolina to catch Footlocker?

JW: I am training for it now. I hope to do my best there.

MB:Can you give us some quick insight into what you're doing to taper for Footlocker?

JW: I haven't changed my workouts. It worked for me at states, hope it does the same up there.

MB: Well, Jake, I think that about wraps it up. Thanks for the interview. Great job last Saturday and good luck in North Carolina.

JW: Thanks, Matt! Great site once again!