Name: Tristan Gaddis
School: Mt. Vernon High School
Q: What does your training look like right now given the current situation?
A: More intense than what it would've been if I had meets. This is the perfect time to train hard with no interruptions, I just want to be ready the next time I get an opportunity to compete!
Q: What are you doing to stay busy other than run right now?
A: Playing the Wii, reading, and filling out scholarship applications
Q: What was your most memorable race/moment?
A: Last years sectional 3200m race. The wind was about 30mph so I drafted most of the race. I made a move to the front with 800 to go and I ended up winning by just a couple strides. After that was the most painful but enjoyable cool down run ever.
Q: What was the funniest thing that happened during your running career?
A: Watching my teammates trying to get into the ice baths.
Q: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
A: Myself. It was always a battle to beat my best, of course I want to win but a PR is the ultimate victory.
Q: What was your greatest accomplishment?
A: Probably winning sectionals in the 3200, but I plan on being a top runner at 3a states if given the opportunity.
Q: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
A: My freshman and sophomore years I would've taken it more seriously, I was immature then and took the opportunities I was given for granted.
Q: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
A: Illness, I always seemed to get a cold or something sometime during the season every year.
Q: What will you miss the most?
A: My team and my coaches!
Q: What advice would you give to younger athletes?
A: Work hard and don't take it for granted, you never know when it could be your last race, jump, or throw!
Q: What kind of an impact has your coach had on you and your team?
A: Personally I think my coach has had the most impact on me other than my dad. He has shaped me as a person and has helped build my character. He's been there to humble me when I win and to build me up when I lose. He's also helped me realize that nothing great ever comes easy and for that I am forever grateful. As for my teammates I'm sure they'd say something similar as me.
Q: What are your college plans?
A: I haven't decided where I will attend college but I do plan to run track and XC, while working towards an Exercise Science degree. After college I'd like to coach a collegiate track team!
Q: Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
A: I want to thank Coach Kleine and Coach Trokey, as well as my teammates and anyone who has ever supported me in any way even if it was something as small as saying good job or giving me a high five. Last but not least I'd like to thank my dad who introduced me to the sport and pushes me to be my best everyday!
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
A: One of my favorite quotes that I think everyone should hear
"If you are going to do something, do it to the best of your ability." -Kobe Bryant