VYPE: What grade are you in this year and how long have you been running cross country?
Canaan: I am a senior this year. I have competed in xc/track since 6th grade, so about 7 years .
VYPE: Is the starting position at the beginning of a race strategic? Explain.
Canaan: Yes, the position that you start at on the line before a race can be helpful because you can place yourself in a way that can give you an advantage depending on the course. For example, if the course has a sharp turn to the right at the beginning of the race, you might want to line up closer to the right side instead of having to start on the far left and navigate your way through.
VYPE: Who is your favorite teacher from any grade and why?
Canaan: One of my favorite teachers was my 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Prince. She was a really caring and loving person. She even fed us rice and taught us how to use chopsticks.
VYPE: What is your favorite part about representing your high school as an athlete?
Canaan: One of my favorite parts about representing my school as an athlete is just being an example to the younger ones at my school by showing them how hard work and commitment can actually pay off.
VYPE: What accomplishment or memory are you most proud of?
Canaan: One of the most memorable accomplishments I’ve had was when I finally ran sub 5 minute mile my sophomore year at state.
VYPE: Which professional athlete do you look up to?
Canaan: The professional athlete that I look up to is Eliud Kipchoge. He is considered one of the best distance runners in history. He is a very talented and humble athlete.
VYPE: What teammate has left the biggest impression on you and why?
Canaan: All of my teammates have made an impact on me, and I’m very grateful for them. One teammate who inspires me the most is Jaxon Wright. He’s very supportive and an encouraging teammate. He always pushes me to be my best. At track meets, he’s not afraid to be heard, I can hear him cheering me on from the complete opposite side of the track.
VYPE: What is the best advice that anyone has given you?
Canaan: Some of the best advice that I’ve received is from my Grandpa. He said, just try your hardest, and if it doesn’t work out, at least you know you tried your best.
VYPE: Here is your chance to give a shoutout or say thank you to anyone you wish.
Canaan: I would like to say thank you to my family for always encouraging me and putting up with all my complaining about my achy body:) Also, thank you to all my coaches who’ve helped me along the way. Special thanks to Coach Joe Harbert for introducing me to this sport and Coach Tyler Bates for the impact he’s made on me and my teammates.
