Name: Michael Cuesta
School: South Portland HS
What was your most memorable race?
Many races were memorable, but in the 100m Finals at the Cumberland County meet I came in first (Because Ramadan pulled a hamstring) and I was very surprised with my victory. It was the first time I had had a breakthrough in that event in a long time.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
In the sprints it's always been guys in my grade from TA, Noble, and Chev. As well as jumpers like Tyler Joy,Dylan Smith, Justin Gagnon.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Taking both titles in the Long and triple indoors was a huge accomplishment for me especially since i was injured. But breaking 22’ was the best thing i had done in track so far.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I’ve always been in my head and psyched myself out. My coach always told me to just have fun with it, I wish I hadn't taken my events so seriously and had relaxed more.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Coming up short at meets where I had great potential really hurt me, but that's how track is. Also spraining my ankle in the indoor season really put me down in terms of jumps.
What will you miss the most?
The bonds I had with my team and my coaches will stay with me forever. But the relationships made with other teams were the best. it's always nice to compete and try to beat them, but shake hands and laugh and smile about races when they are over. Ill miss the fun times with all the teams, especially duck duck goose with TA, Noble, Deering, and Chev at the Westbrook Relay meet!
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
Never give up. You have so much more potential then you can imagine and performing less than your best will hurt you more than a loss.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coaches have taught me that kindness goes a long way. There was never one meet I did not thank the jumping officials and I was one of their favorite athletes because of this. Also there is always a way around adversity but it comes down to how you handle the situation when it comes your way.
What are your college plans?
I will be attending Merrimack College and will be part of the track and field team. I will also major in Sports Medicine.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank my coaches and parents for molding me into the young adult I am today. Also a huge thank you to everyone who has supported me in the last 4 years and thanks to all the other teams for being great friends on and off the track.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I'd like to say good luck to all the other athletes competing next year, especially the SP teams. Also a huge shout out to my boy Daniel Gulliani for being one of the greatest throwers to come through NE.
More Coverage
Do you know a class of 2015 track and field or cross country athlete? We'd like to salute them! Have them answer the following questions plus send 2-3 photos (can not be from another website or publication) to dveilleux@milesplit.us