Gavin Smith

Interview with Michelle Sicard
Nomination by Penny Smith
Photography by Dwight Allen Photography
Iowa

The Nomination: Gavin has been running since his 7th grade year in Cross Country (and Track). Gavin has qualified for state for 6 years in a row starting in Junior High, with his team, and individually. Junior High garnered a state title and a runner up. In High school the Spartans were 4th twice, runners up once, and State Champions (in 4A) once. Gavin has been in the top 15 at state individually, earning him a All-State Award. Countless hours and miles have been run in and out of season. His attitude and character have been an example and inspiration to many, including his family!
 
What/Who inspired you to become a track athlete at your school?
I started cross country and track in the 7th grade and I wasn’t very good at first. Coach Sacco (my coach at the time as well as my asst coach in high school) really motivated me to keep improving. By the end of that year, I had improved so much that I finished the season as the team’s second-best long-distance runner.

Tell me a little bit about the level of competitiveness at the state championships.
The state meet is as competitive as it gets. The meets throughout the year are just to help get people in the competitive mindset you need for state.

As a dedicated member of the track/ cross-country team, how do you balance your academic, athletic, and social life?
I'm able to balance all the things in my life by developing my time management skill. I pre-plan most of my days so I have enough time to finish schoolwork, practice, and hang out with my friends.

What are some of the most important qualities a good runner/ athlete must have to do well?
I think one of the most valuable quality an athlete can have is dedication. As an athlete, you have to train day in and day out and you have to realize that success doesn’t come overnight; you have to work towards a goal and stick with it for the long haul.

What do you plan on doing after high school?
After high school, I plan to continue my running career at a competitive level. Alongside my running career, I hope to study business and one day hold a high managerial position in a company.

Gavin was featured in Issue 15.

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