With the indoor track and field season basically on hold without many competitions, we wanted to highlight some of the top athletes in the state. For the next month or so we will have interviews with athletes across the state. Today's feature is with Bangor Junior standout Camden Lavoie.
When did you first start competing in track and field, and do you recall any of your childhood races/events?
I started competing in 8th grade. I mainly focused on shot put.
Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?
I think when the pandemic came around I really started to think about track in more depth and thinking about college and what comes after high school.
What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?
I think the biggest bump in the road that I had was when the pandemic started. Last spring we really just ended so fast we had no time to try and figure something out on how to keep training. The last meet that I had before last week's meet was late February 2020. From going a year without the experience of a meet and very little practice time I think that really took a toll on my training.
How has COVID impacted your training this winter as you prepared for the season?
Our school particularly has had it very bad when it comes to the number of cases and the number of weeks we have missed of school and practice. We also had to start the season a little delayed.
The PVC conference is holding shot put competitions in HS gyms this winter, when you found out about this what was your reaction?
I honestly was just happy that there was going to be any type of meet. I wish we could be having them hosted at The University of Maine like normal but the way that brewer has been able to let us use their facility was an awesome way to keep the season going. The way they have it set up is better than I could've imagined. I was scared at first but I really like how it all played out.
What do you get hope to get out of practices and meets this winter?
I just hope to be able to practice as a team and try to set a personal best for myself and get stronger and ready for the spring season!
Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?
I honestly only think that shot put is appealing to me out of all the other events.
What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of track?
I love to travel! I also enjoy going on car rides and listening to music!
Who is your role model, and why?
I think my role model would be Allen Mosca. Allen Mosca is my amazing coach that always pushes me to be my best even when I'm having an off day. He mainly works with the throwers but also finds time to be our head coach and always try's to help out whenever he can, whether it's at meets or at practice he would always offer to help.
Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!
I really want to go cliff jumping! I also want to try surfing!
What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?
I tend to eat a couple of granola bars while at a meet.
If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?
I've always found volleyball a really cool sport! Unfortunately, Bangor high school doesn't offer volleyball
Lavoie's High School Personal Bests
| Outdoor | |
| Shot Put | 34-7.75 |
| Indoor | |
| Shot Put | 39-3 |