Salute to Seniors-Matt McClintock Madison HS
What was your most memorable race?
Either Foot Locker Nationals or the New England Championship 3200m race my senior year. Nationals because it is the highest class of runners in the country and to place 15th out of all of them was amazing. New Englands because it was my first and only New England championship and it was the last race of my high school career and it couldn't have ended any better.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most?
Probably the New england championship at 3200m because it was my only win in an out of state meet, and it was the first New England championship won by a Madison athlete.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would have trained harder my freshman, sophomore, and junior years. I will always regret that.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Probably simply facing my nerves. I get so nervous before big meets and I feel like it has set me back, especially in the out of state meets, but I think I was able to overcome that this year and feel like I belonged running with the front pack and I was "supposed" to beat those guys.
What will you miss the most?
I will definitely miss my coaches, Bob and Brandon Hagopian, the most of anything.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Never allow yourself to settle for anything less that what is your utmost best. whether it be in races, workouts, or just life.
What advice have your coaches had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coaches taught me that lesson I just relayed to the younger runners.
What are your college plans?
I'll be running for Purdue University next year most likely in the 5000 and 10000 meters. I plan to train the hardest I possibly can and make a run at the 2016 olympics. . After college I want to get sponsored and make my really really strong push for the 2020 games in the 5000 or 100000... or both
Who would you like to say thank you to?
Definetly all of my coaches and everyone who has supported me over the years, my family, friends, etc. I can't thank you enough.
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