Athlete Q & A with Justin Long of Parkview


When did you first become interested in running/track?

I became interested when I was 10 and watched my sister Leigha practicing and running with her summer track team.

What other sports have you played?

Football, basketball and baseball. I played football through my junior year and had some offers to play in college, but I decided to focus on track.

When did you realize you had the talent to succeed in the sport and who brought it to your attention?

During my first year, I realized it because I was able to make it to nationals.  My teammates and my parents brought it to my attention.

What is your favorite event and why?

My favorite event is the 200m because of the distance-not too short, and not too long. It is just comfortable.

Who has been the most influential person (besides a parent) in your track career and why?

I have had a lot-Coach Karsten Edwards (Track Phi Track & SMART Athletics) when I first started and Coach Kristan Moses (Track Phi Track & Exchange Zone) through middle school and into high school, taught me how to train and helped me develop my love for it. Coach Henson at Parkview has helped me develop into a better runner too, and has been there for me with training/recruiting/school.  In terms of an athlete, Obea Moore because of how good he was at a young age in the same events I compete in.

Do you compete in indoor/summer track?

Yes.  I used to compete with Track Phi Track & Exchange Zone.  Since I have been in high school, I have competed with the Parkview Express (high school team members) and unattached in AAU.

What has been your favorite moment in your track career thus far and why?

My favorite moment was winning the national relay championships last year at New Balance Outdoor with my teammates in the 4x1, 4x2 and Swedish Medley and breaking the national record in the Swedish Medley.

What are your ultimate goals for the 2018 high school outdoor track season?

One is to keep lowering my 400m and 200m times, and my ultimate goal is to help Parkview finish strong again at the state meet.

What is your favorite subject in school?

Social studies

What is your favorite food?

Spaghetti

How do you spend your "time off" away from school and the track?

Hanging out with my friends.

What colleges are pursuing you to compete? Have you signed an LOI?

I commited/signed in November with Oklahoma State University.

Do you follow Milesplit?

Yes.

What advice would you offer to young kids and middle schoolers concerning track & field?

I would tell young kids to keep working hard at practice and trust your coaches.  Set a goal and believe you can get there.  You have to work hard to try and achieve it, but it is worth it!