(Photo provided by Malachi Lossow)
First of all, how did you first get involved with track and field?
I first got involved with track and field in the 4th grade. I ran for a team that was run by Hiawatha Park. I stopped running in middle school but joined the track team again when I entered high school.
What are all your personal records?
I have run a 10.99 100m dash and a 22.05 in the 200m dash.
Do you do, or have you done, any other sports?
Throughout high school I've participated in basketball along with track and field.
What is your favorite or most memorable competition you've ever been in?
The most memorable competition I've been in is definitely the State track meet last year. It was the first time I had ever made it there and it was an amazing experience.
Other than your own teammates, who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against?
Javien Versey and Denzel Brown.
(Photo provided by Malachi Lossow)
Who are some people that have been most helpful to you in your athletic career?
My Dad is the sole reason I got into sports in the first place, so everything that has come after that is just a product of what he instilled in me. As far as running goes, all the coaches on staff at my high school have been helpful in some way, shape, or form.
How did your Dad help you get involved in sports?
My Dad played in the NFL, so athletics is kind of in my genes. He signed me up for whatever I wanted to play st a local park when I was young. As I was approaching middle school my Dad started to coach all the teams I played on. Whether it was football, basketball, or baseball, my Dad figured out a way to coach.
What is a challenge you have had to face as an athlete?
I've always been a bit of a head case. I think too much. It has been a challenge for me to get to a point where I don't need to think, and I can trust my training.
What how did you manage to get to that point?
I've had a total of 4 different sprint coaches during my time at South High School. While this isn't always ideal, each and every one of those coaches helped me perfect a different part of running. I believe this well-rounded training helped get me to the point where I could trust my body to rely on it's instincts.
What are your main goals for this upcoming track season?
I just want to do better than I did last year. If I can accomplish that, I'll be very happy.
Do you have any college plans?
I am going to be attending Bethel University in the fall. I plan on running for their track team as well.
(Photo provided by Malachi Lossow)
What were some of the things that attracted you to Bethel as your school choice?
The main thing I loved about Bethel was the incredible Christian community. I also loved the coaching staff that was in place on their track and field team. Along with that, I was awarded the Act Six scholarship, which will be paying my full tuition to go there. It was pretty much a no-brainer.
Do you have any rituals, routines, or superstitions either on or off the track?
This is going to sound really weird, but I always carry around a pink plastic fish. It's kind of become my good luck charm. I also say a prayer right before I get into the blocks. It helps calm me down, knowing that the result is in God's hands.
What is the story behind the pink plastic fish?
About a year ago, I was walking through a park with my friend. When we walked past a picnic table, I noticed this plastic pink fish sitting on top of it. I went over to the table and pocketed the fish. Ever since then its always been with me in my car, in my backpack, or attached to my keys. I'm still not sure what made me want to go pick it up off the picnic table.
When not doing anything track-related, what might we find you doing?
I love to make and listen to music. I love listening to all kinds, but I usually make Hip Hop/Rap beats.
Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.
I have a decent-sized shoe collection. About 40 pairs.