Salute To Seniors: Jared Lopez - Colonial
What was your most memorable meet?
The 2011 state meet. We won the 4A race and became the first team to ever win a state meet in Colonial High School history. It was also my last cross country race. It was quite emotional.
What would you consider your biggest competition
As far as other teams it would definitely be Miami Columbus. They were out for blood this past season and beat us at Pre- State. Personally my biggest competition would have to have been my own teammates. We were so stacked that if you weren't careful, you might find yourself off the team.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most?
Winning the State Meet, hands down.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
If I could go back I would have definitely invested more passion into the sport. Enthusiasm can take you a long way in the sport and I just didn't have the enthusiasm in my later years. The sport is almost all mental and I just didn't have the right outlook.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Running fast enough to stay on varsity and fast enough to beat whoever i was told to beat, despite sickness and injuries.
What will you miss the most?
Definitely my teamates along with a few runners from other schools.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Run fast.
What are your college plans?
I am attending USF in the fall. I wanted to walk on but have now decided that I don't want to anymore. Not enough time.
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Want to be featured in our Salute To Seniors series? Drop me a line: TGrasley@milesplit.com and answer the questions above! Congratulations to the class of 2012 on all their hard work and success.
