- 2017 Highlights
Personal Statement
I started off playing many sports as a kid including, baseball, basketball, football and soccer. It wasn't until I was in 8th grade, playing football, that I learned that I had the ability to run long distances. I talked to my football coach about quitting and he encouraged me to run. I then joined cross country and won our league championship. My mentor, at the time, and a very influential motivator, was a high school student named Quinn, who was an experienced and hard working runner. He taught me that talent wasn't enough to be the best and that hard work and discipline makes a great runner. Going into my freshman year of running, I had an injury plagued Fall and never fully hit a good stride for cross country. I used the winter as a time to get back into shape for track and I learned the mental aspect of running from my soon to be close friend, Trevor, who was an experienced senior.
During the next track season, I continually improved every week in the 1600, but I had trouble getting a good start in the 800 meter run. As the season continued, I dropped my 1600 from a 5:09 to a 4:37 and my 800 from 2:18 to 2:07. Even though my official time for an individual 800 was a 2:07, I got it down to 2:00 on my 3200 relay team.
One of my strengths is that I am very competitive and I use that a lot in practices when running with teammates. I know that I am not a perfect runner so I am willing to listen to those who try to help me by critiquing my races. Because I started off as a sprinter, I have a good kick which may separate me from others in the final stretch of a race. I realize education is important to become a well rounded person. Although I am undecided on a college major, I know that the same qualities I use as a runner, such as discipline and dedication, will help me in my academic endeavors.
