James Rivera '19 Recruiting Profile

My greatest achievement to date is something that proves hard work, focus and determination pays off.  I watched my brother win the State Championship in the 800m race my sophomore year and wanted to win a state title as well but also excel in the event I would run.  After missing the State championship that year in the relays my sprint coach decided to try hurdles since he felt I could be a natural with my speed.  So I started private training with him in September on the field and in the gym. Then I learned hurdles in December of my junior year to prepare for the upcoming 2018 track season.  I ran the 300m hurdles 6 times before Districts and had never ran the 110m hurdles before Districts.  I practiced and learned the 110m hurdles 1 week prior to Districts.  I won the District in both events and then won the Regionals in both as well.  At State Championship Finals,  even though I did not run a great 110m race I was determined to win the 300m because I felt that was my race to lose.  I did win the State title in the 300m Hurdles as a junior.  (Video of race in profile)

Currently my best time in the 110m hurdles is 14.27 and I only ran it 6 times.  The 300m personal best is 37.14(State Championship Final) and have only run it 10 times.

Now my goals for my senior year are to run as close to 36.00 or lower in the 300 hurdles and as close to 13.00 in the 110m hurdles.  I am very goal oriented and want to be the best both in my sport as well as on an academic level.

So a great fit for me is to attend a college that will help me excel towards my degree and also has a track program/coaches that can help me succeed at the college level and beyond.