Salute to Seniors: Brooke McEwen


Before the class of 2020 makes their final farewells to high school cross country and track and field, we want to give everyone a chance to salute them one more time!FLRunners invites all seniors to tell their stories from the past four years.

Today we salute Circle Christian senior, Brooke McEwen.

By Brooke McEwen --- 

My running career was the greatest experience and privilege in high school. I had the honor of competing with some of the most talented athletes, and getting amazing opportunities I never thought possible! I will be attending Milligan University in Johnson City, TN to compete with their cross country and track and field teams, as well as majoring in Nursing with the goal to become a Nurse practitioner. There are so many cherishable memories I've had throughout the years, but if I had to pick just one, it would definitely be my 3200m race at the FHSAA State Track and Field meet of my Junior Year. I saw what I was capable of that night, and giving it my all during that race, I landed the spot of State Runner-Up! I feel like God gave me a true glimpse of the gift He gave me, one I've waited years to see.

My biggest competition would definitely be myself. Each practice, race, and workout was a test on my mind. I had to learn how to push through the doubts and fears to accomplish my goals and come out on top. I overcame most of these obstacles through prayer, and trust in what my coaches tell me, trust in my team, and trusting in myself and the Lord.

My biggest role model is the amazing Olympic athlete Jenny Simpson. I truly admire her hard work and drive to always do her best- and I aspire to be just like her one day.

If I were to give any advice to the rising younger athletes, I would say: NEVER back down, if you're struggling in a workout- push through it, because it is part of the process of you getting stronger! In the end the victory will make you embrace the work to get there. Finally, this is something pretty cliche and said a lot- but it has so much meaning: BELIEVE in yourself, and TRUST your training, and PREFORM like a champion! Always put yourself in the mindset that "I'm going to be a champion today"- it's one of my favorite mantras to tell myself before every run.

Lastly, I'd like to thank a couple of amazing figures in my career. Thank you to my coaches Tyler Jagen and Brandy Parker. You have given my never ending support, and always push me to do my best, and reach the goals that I want to achieve. Your spiritual guidance helped me connect with the Lord through my running by channeling the work and belief together to do something amazing. I would especially like to thank Coach Mark Caulfied who taught me how to run and train like a champion, who gave me leadership opportunities and inspired me on a daily basis to believe in myself and my abilities, and made me believe that "I AM ENOUGH"! Thank you to all my teammates for being the most fun family one could ask for. The memories we've made will be cherished forever. Finally, thank you Mom and Dad- for being my biggest cheerleaders. Thank you for driving me to every meet and practice, even if it meant waking up at 5AM to drive all the way out to Clermont or Lakeland. Thank you for giving me all the love and support to get me where I am today; I may not like some of the vegetables I eat, but it makes me stronger, and I have you to thank for that! Thank you FLRunners for being an amazing partner to document and catalog all the historic races all these years!

Farewell Florida, and thanks for the memories!