Kevin Andres, Class of 2019 - Becker High School
What are all your personal records? What State Meet competitions have you been in, and what were your results?
Last year I ran a personal record 400m with a time of 49.58. Our 4x400 also ran 3:23 as our best time. Track and Field is the only sport I've made it to State in. It was grueling since I had to run in 3 events two days in a row, but it was so awesome!
How did you first get involved with track, and what other sports have you done?
I've always liked sprinting so I was just waiting until I was old enough to join track. I started varsity as a 7th grader and I was immediately hooked on this sport. The teammates and the competition is what makes track so special to me. I also played football and wrestled during my high school career.
What is your favorite or most memorable competition you've ever been in?
My most memorable competition was the section finals of our 4x400 relay. We were fighting for first place and it came down to a photo finish, but we did win. It felt really awful to run that 400 a second time in one day but it was so fun.
Who are some people that have been most helpful to you in your athletic career, and how have they helped you?
My success as an athlete is largely affected by my parents. Especially my dad. He understands the mentality that is needed in order to be great at something. And that's something that has helped me tremendously over the years. But no coach has ever pushed me harder than my wrestling coaches! They helped me understand the potential I have. And of course, my Track and Field coaches, since they understand the sport on a technical level. Being coached by them since 7th grade has helped me a lot.
What is a challenge, or challenges, you have had to face as an athlete?
The biggest challenge I face is knowing I can't be the best every single day. I can't run a PR every single meet. Sometimes life just kicks you in the butt, and you have to deal with it. The only thing I can do is train my hardest and put in my best effort because that is the only factor I can control.
What are your main goals for this track season?
I would love to run under 49 seconds in my 400. But mainly I would just like to run a personal record. I'm excited to see what I can do!
When not doing anything track-related, what might we find you doing?
In my free time I enjoy being with friends and being lazy. My favorite thing to do is get up in the morning on a weekend and drink black coffee!
What advice would you give to younger athletes, or athletes just starting out in track?
I would tell younger athletes to just work hard! It's really simple, but it is critical to your success. Putting time in on the off season has helped me a lot. Strength training and not eating garbage foods goes a long way.
Do you have any specific sprinting advice or tips that you would like to share?
My biggest sprinting advice is run fast and don't think about it. If you overthink your race, you will for sure be disappointed. Just control what you can control, and make the most of the opportunity!
Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.
I vomit after almost every 400.
