Salute To Seniors: Shelby Garbett



What was your most memorable race?
 
My most memorable race had to be my very first cross country race. I didn't know what to expect because I was so new to the sport. My teammates were so encouraging and supportive of me and were a big help in calming me down. When I started I immediately knew I enjoyed the sport. I finished better than I had ever imagined. I couldn't wait for the next meet.
 
Where did you face your biggest competition?
 
I faced my biggest competition at the 2A State meet. I couldn't believe my team made it so far. We ran into many teams we had beaten a few weeks before in districts and in regionals who were coming after us to beat us in states. The pressure was on and we were going against many school rivals. It was exciting yet nerve-racking.
 
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
 
Out of everything I count my biggest accomplishments as being apart of the 4x800 team that made it to states and placed 3rd. Also, being awarded the Orlando Runners Club scholarship.
 
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
 
I would have focused more on running and not all the other sports I participated in. I would have chosen to run cross country all four years instead of just one year.
 
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
 
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome had to be when I had a stress fracture and tendonitis in my ankle during track season my senior year. At first I didn't realize and consequently making it worse. Because of this my running execution slowly decreased, causing my senior year to be less than I had expected in my racing performances.
 
What will you miss the most?
 
I will miss my teammates and coaches the most. They were all so supportive and encouraging. It all helped me to become the runner I am today. I am so thankful for everyones help and dedication to make me a better runner year after year in high school.
 
Do you have any advice for younger athletes? 
 
My advice to younger athletes is to always give their hardest in practice and any other cross training activities. Although it may be hard sometimes its always worth it in the end. Listen to your coaches they know what they are doing, and essentially want the best for all their athletes. Also, they should stick with the sport, it has rewarded me in more ways than one and again I am thankful.

How have your coaches influenced your performance and your life goals overall?
 
My coaches have influenced my performance in track an cross country in a positive way that I would not be where I am today without their constant support. They always pushed me to my potential and even beyond that. My coaches truly tested me and challenged me to be greater than I even knew I could be.
 
What are your college plans?
 
My plans for college consist of me majoring in accounting. I have also committed to run for the Flagler College Cross Country Team. Go Saints!

 

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