State Champion Spotlight: Matthew Todd (Greely HS)
What were your preparations leading up to the state meet?
Leading up to the state meet, I was trying to taper to make sure I was feeling good going into the race. I had just had the flu a couple of weeks prior to the meet, so I was making sure to stay as hydrated as possible to recover fully for the meet. Other than that, I just tried my best to get into a good place mentally so that I'd be ready to race when I got to the line.
What was one thing that you focused on this winter that made a difference in your performance?
This winter one of my main focuses was to be as consistent as possible in workouts. Even when I was having an off day, I tried to make sure I was as close to my splits as possible so that I could get the most out of each workout. I believe that this helped with my kick in the championship races and that this also helped me hit my prescribed splits in races throughout the season.
You watched your sister win the mile title before going out and winning your own state title. What did it mean to win your first individual state title and be able to share the moment with your twin sister?
It meant everything to me that Carolyn and I were both able to win the mile title. Seeing her win gave me confidence that I could do the same in my race. It also served as a reminder that I had my own race to run shortly after. It was a great moment to share with her, and I'm glad to have her as both a sister and as a teammate.
Coming into the season what were your goals and did you achieve them?
Going into the season, my goals were to break 4:30 in the mile and for the guys to win the team title. While getting under 4:30 will have to wait until outdoor, I was very happy that our team was able to win on both of the guys and girls sides.
If there was one event you haven't done that you would like to try what would it be?
One event that I'd like to try at some point is the steeplechase, which is the ultimate hybrid of swimming and running. I've aqua jogged twice, so I'd be well prepared for the event. It looks like a fun race, and the hurdles add an interesting layer to the event. You could be on track to win the race, and then just stall at the last hurdle.
What have your coaches meant to your success?
My coaches have helped me so much throughout my high school career. Coach Dowling has had a tremendous amount of success here at Greely, and it really means a lot to have such a great coach helping me improve. Coach Folan also does a great job as head coach, and we are lucky to have him
Todd's Mile Progression
| 1 MILE | |
|---|---|
| INDOOR | Graph |
| 2018 | 4:36.12 |
| 2017 | 4:50.13 |
| 2016 | 4:52.62 |
| 2015 | 6:25.50 |