PR's
100m: 12.14
200m: 25.40
400m: 1:01.28
What were some of the highlights of your high school cross country and track careers?
The highlight of my high school track and field career was being state champions 3 years in a row. Being able to travel with the team and having all our work pay off was amazing. Another highlight, was competing in New Balance Nationals for the first time in my junior year. It was a great experience and one I would never forget.
Did you encounter any struggles or adversity along the way that you had to overcome?
Overcoming team and individual losses during meets, and losing valuable members on our team was the hardest part. When seniors graduate we had to find other teammates to fill their spots. Fortunately, we made it work and was able to build the team to who we are today. It was also difficult to lose races under difficult circumstances, but I learned after every race and I worked hard to fix my mistakes so that my mechanics could improve.
Aside from the competition, what was the best thing about being a part of your school's program?
Besides the competition, the best thing about being apart of the school's program was the family aspect. We have a close-knit track team. We cheer on all of our teammates whether they are sprinters, long-distance, jumpers, or throwers. After Region or Sectionals we would always go out to eat and reflect on our races. Being as big a team as we were, it was always a good feeling to know that we supported each other throughout the entire season.
Are there any coaches or teammates that you've worked with over the past four years that you'd like to thank?
I would like to thank Coach Mack, Coach Freddie, and Coach Williams. Each of these coaches helped me on and off the field. Keeping me in good shape, helping improve on my technique, and making me a positive athlete are all the things these coaches have done to make me a better athlete.
How are you coping with COVID-19 and the looming possibility that your HS track career might very well be over?
It has been hard coping with the recent pandemic and the track season ending so soon. However, I have been keeping a positive attitude and spending more time with my family. It has allowed me to focus more on staying healthy and hydrated, while hopefully waiting for life to return to normality and I can get ready to take the next step, which is college.
What are your plans and goals for the future? Do you intend on continuing with the sport in college or in another capacity?
I am continuing my track career at Eastern Kentucky University on a full track scholarship and hopefully this pandemic will not delay that opportunity for me or anyone who plans to continue their life further at the collegiate level.
What advice would you give to a younger athlete who's hoping to have a successful and enjoyable high school career?
My advice to younger athletes will be to enjoy the season and high school while you still can. We have all seen how fast the world can change and it is important that younger athletes appreciate everything and everyone around them. I would advise every young athlete to take their academics seriously. You will create more opportunities for yourself if you keep focusing on your grades. Listen to your teachers as well as your coaches, and try your best on the field and off the field. And overall, just have fun.
