Senior spotlight is an attempt to let athletes tell as much of their own story as we can. We want to take a look into some of the things that make them tick. If you are a senior who is in the top 25 this fall and want to be featured, send an email to milesplitga@gmail.com
Here we've got Samuel Wood from Trinity Christian for a senior spotlight moment:
What is your PR in XC so far?
My current PR is 14:59.
What are your college plans, if you have them figured out?
I want to attend one of the service academies and serve my country by flying in the Air Force, Navy, or Coast Guard.
What's your most memorable race or race you're most proud of?
When I lived in South Korea in 2022, I had an awesome race in which I won and got a PR of 16:36. It was memorable because I had no idea I could run that fast at that time, so I was pretty stoked.
What is your favorite meet in cross country season and why?
I would definitely say Wingfoot. I ran the morning race for 2 years and then our team made it into the Night of Champions, which was my first ever night race. It's my favorite because the atmosphere is electric and it's a very hyped up meet.
What has been your biggest challenge in high school or what has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?
My biggest challenge was probably focusing on doing the little things right and doing everything I can to be better. I never really focused on staying consistent with mileage, eating healthy, or stretching/rolling out until this year--I realized how much that stuff matters and that's when I started seeing big results.
What is your daily/weekly mileage like?
This season, I aim for 50-53 every week, but depending on the race, I'll take some days leading up easier than others.
What do you think is the biggest part of training that has helped you achieve success?
Not getting demotivated after a bad workout. You need to keep your mindset positive and remember that work is still work. I heard a quote from an influencer that was something along the lines of, "Some runs aren't meant to strengthen your body."
What is your all time favorite workout?
I've always been a fan of mile repeats @ 5k pace, but I also love descending 400s.
What is your least favorite or hardest workout?
I really don't like broken 800s, which is an 800 broken up into all-out segments of a 400, 200, and 200. I don't think I've ever experienced that much pain in a workout.
Who do you have to thank for your success?
I want to thank my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, for providing this all to me. I want to thank my cross country coach, Mr. Tipton, and my track coaches, Mr. Ross and Mr. Freeman. They all have had such a big impact on me and have helped me build a love for running. I also want to thank my family for keeping me motivated and showing up to all my meets to support--it means the world.
Who do you look up to the most in your event?
My boys Q-Tip and Chin Hair. They know who they are.
What gets you pumped up for a workout or race?
It's less of me getting pumped and more of just trying to have fun with it. Like I'll be cracking jokes with my teammates and being the most unserious person on the line before the gun, but that's what puts me in the racing mood.
What is your favorite food and/or movie and/or TV show and/or song?
I really mess with chicken fried rice. My favorite TV show is Suits and my favorite song is "Come Out and Play" by the Offspring,
What will you miss the most about high school?
My friends and teammates. I don't know what I would've done without the people I have today.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would say to be consistent and get miles in even when you're not in season. This summer before my senior year was the first time I actually locked in on my miles, and it has made all the difference.
