Name: Paul Casavant
School: Hampden Academy
What was your most memorable race?
Freshman year outdoor PVCs. I ran a PR in the 1600 by almost 15 seconds to get second. I also beat my teammate Caleb Lord, who was a huge running role model of mine. This race marked the point where I really learned how to race like a racer.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My competition has really changed throughout my four years. As a freshman and sophomore it was Caleb Lord. As a junior it was Osman Doorow. And this year it has been with Jeremiah Sands and, kind of indirectly, Luke Laverdiere. I thank them all for pushing and challenging me.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
I think my greatest accomplishment was getting All New England this outdoor. It wasn't my highest finish at New Englands, but it was a huge PR and I raced it well.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
If I could do it over I would tell myself to be more thankful for the efforts of my coaches. They did so much to get me where I am today.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was my stress fracture last year.
What will you miss the most?
I'll miss the big races where I get to meet up with all the guys I don't get to see very often the most. I loved Fest. and States where we had top competition and I got to see the guys from Southern Maine. Maine has a great running community full of great people and I will definitely miss it.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
I want to tell younger athletes to pay attention to the little things like stretching, sleep, and diet. It makes a huge difference with your running. I also want to tell them to encourage and support the athletes who are younger than them. Theres only one way to make Maine track/xc bigger and better!
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
Both of my coaches have had tremendous influence on my running and life. They both showed me the importance of hard work and dedication to running. I would not be running for Cornell next year without their guidance and support. My cross country teacher also was my biology teacher. He also inspired me to pursue bioengineering as well.
What are your college plans?
I will be running for Cornell University and studying bioengineering next year.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I want to thank both of my coaches for guiding and supporting me. I want to thank my parents and siblings for carting me around everywhere and being my biggest supporters. I also want to give a special shoutout to my track coach's wife, Mrs. Kash. I cannot thank her enough for all that she has done for me. And finally, I want to thank all the xc and track people in Maine. You make this community what it is!
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Go Big Red!!!!
More Coverage
Do you know a class of 2017 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
