Lex Hilton of Green Forest XC Senior Sendoff

Lex Hilton of Green Forest XC Senior Sendoff


What was your most memorable meet and why?

Looking back, my most memorable meet was my first one. I started cross country my junior year, and I fell in love with the sport.  I ran at the Shiloh Invitational and placed fourth. The reason I remember this meet so well is not just because it was my first one, but because it was the first time I ever ran a 5k.  It was also important to me because it was the first time I ran with what I now call my life-long friends.

 

Where did you face your biggest competition?

The 2018 state cross country meet for sure. The predictions placed me third, and I knew I was going to have to race smart if I wanted to get first. I could honestly see the race go to any of us in the top three, but luckily all of the hard work I put in paid off and I was able to reach my goal.

 

Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?

I think placing first at state was my biggest accomplishment throughout high school. I wanted a state title before I graduated, and I'm glad I was able to do so.

 

If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

I only started running distance last year, so I wish I would've started running at a younger age.

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

I've always been a competitive person, so I think that I had to work on my confidence because I hated losing, and when I did, I wanted to give up, but luckily I was able to overcome that.

 

What will you miss the most?

I think I'll miss my team the most. We've been through a lot together, and we've shared many memories. They're my second family.

Do you have any advice for younger athletes?

I'd tell them that although it may be hard, the payoff and satisfaction of running is worth it.

What are your post-high school or college plans?

I do have intentions of running in college. As of right now I have a few options as to where I want to go, but I think I'll be making my decision fairly soon, and I'm excited to continue my running career!

Who would you like to say thank you to?

There are many people I want to give a thanks to. First I want to give a thanks to my coach. Coach James has supported me throughout track and cross country. He believed in me even when I didn't believe in myself, and that's the best quality a coach/mentor can have. I want to give another thanks to my team. We,ve spent a lot of time together, and we've always been there to support and encourage each other. The memories we have are things I'm always going to treasure. Finally, I want to thank my girlfriend. Although it may seem really cheesy to say, I'm really glad I have her in my life to support me. She never once doubted my ability as a runner and helped me through the tough times in my life outside of running. I couldn't of done it without her and I'm very thankful to have her in my life.