H. Lowndes Smith '26 Recruiting Profile

Hey, I am running for Greer Middle College Charter High School. I started cross country in 7th grade and track in 9th. At first, I was hesitant to run both track and cross country, but I am so glad I did for so many reasons. Not only did I fall in love with a sport that I can do for the rest of my life, but I am meeting so many people along the way. Last school year, I did my first ever 5k to kick off the cross-country season. I knew nothing going into my race except to run as fast as I could for as long as I could. I placed first for my age group with a time of 21.42. Since then, I have been able to take off over 2 minutes, and I am so grateful for the growth and the personal competition.  Not only did I get faster, but running has helped shape me as a person. I’ve become a better leader and team member, learned the importance of time management, perseverance, and patience. Lastly, I have realized that dealing with mental blocks and injuries is part of the experience and something I continue to work on. Greer Middle College does not have a track or many other facilities, so we have become flexible as a team. We take up any opportunity to get in track time and have needed to alter workouts to get the most out of the situation. Last track season, in 2A state finals I finished the 800 with a PR of 2.36.53.  This year, at Bob Jenkins Coaches Classic, I was able to get a 2.26.97, taking almost 10 seconds off my PR from last season. I can’t wait to see what the rest of my career holds, and I am so excited for all the memories I will make along the way.