Flrunners.com: What was your most memorable race/moment?
AB: Probably the first time I ever broke 17 minutes in the 5k and qualified for states in my sophomore year. I was working to break that time barrier all year and finally got it my 2nd to last race of the season.
FLR: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
AB: All the other runners in the Central Florida area. Whether it was my teammates or rival schools, those were the people I would see every weekend and during the summers. Those people would motivate me the most to be the best that I could be. Also, specifically my old teammate Tyler Skidelsky, he really challenged me every day and pushed me the most. There wasn't a person that I loved to compete against more than him.
FLR: What was your greatest accomplishment?
AB: My greatest accomplishment had to be helping my team get 9th place at this year's cross country states. We went from being one of the last ranked teams in the state before the season to top 10 at states and I'm so proud of my team for doing so. That race was probably the hardest race of my life and even though I didn't run my best time, I stayed focused and made sure to do whatever I could to help my team succeed. Also, commentating the Avery Creek Distance Showcase 5k. No idea how the microphone ended up in my hand but I took advantage of the situation and had some fun.
FLR: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
AB: One thing really sticks out and that is to train smarter but besides that absolutely nothing. I've had such great experiences since I started running. Everything that's happened to me was for a reason and it's made me the person I am today.
FLR: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
AB: The most cliché but truest would be injuries. I really feel that I didn't get to reach my potential my senior year because of injuries but not everything goes according to plan in life so you got to go with it.
FLR: What will you miss the most?
AB: I'm going to miss my team the most by far. Some of my favorite moments during the many seasons is sitting around on the field after a hard workout or long run. Cracking jokes, stretching, and getting roasted. I'm going to miss getting kicked out of our group chat for saying something dumb and the post track workout rap battles in the locker room. I wouldn't forget the many good mood dudes on the team as well. Also, Brevard is the place.
FLR: What advice you would give to younger athletes?
AB: Train smart. Have fun running and take advantage of your opportunities in front of you. Whether that's not slacking off and training to your potential or making friends with other runners. Some of my best friends are people that I've met at a xc meet or a running camp.
FLR: What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
AB: My coach has been the most influential person in my life during high school. He's like a father and a best friend all in one. He knows how to push me to my limit and has taught me so much about the sport. He was very smart in how he trained me and knows how to get the most out of anyone he coaches. I'm going to miss him a lot. Thanks for not burning me out.
FLR: What are your college plans?
AB: I'll be attending the University of North Florida and I'll be running on the team there as well. Excited for this opportunity!
FLR: Who would you like to say thank you to?
AB: Thank you to my family for always being there for me and supporting me in whatever I'm doing!
FLR: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
AB: Shout out to my team, young Gavin, and my little brother Reese. He's been putting in the work. Shout out to FACA Gang, best running squad out there and to my TP boys. Watch out for my boy Trent, he's a killer. Follow me on twitter @TheONLYBobo11 #Swoop.
