Salute to Seniors Patrick Rice Windham HS
What was your most memorable race?
Last year's outdoor triple jump competition at the Cumberland County Championship. I remember I was jumping really well that day but so was Malcolm Smith from Cheverus. It was so fun because I would one-up Malcolm and then he would do the same to me. This went on until Malcolm's last jump when the chain was finally broken and I was just able to beat him. I think about this meet when I am behind in long jump or triple jump and only have a few more jumps left and it always gives me hope.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most?
The accomplishment that stands out the most to me is by far placing 6th at New England's. I was seeded 22 with a jump of 42'3'' and my first two jumps were not that good. I had been telling my coach all week that i was going to jump 44' (I should have told her 45' or 46') and with one last jump I did just that. We were so happy that once the official said 44' we stopped listening and I didn't know the full distance until the end of the meet.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would have change the way I spent the off time between seasons, done more relays and tried more events my freshman year, but most importantly I would have had the same intensity but would not have been so hard on myself.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacles I had to overcome involved my nerves and confidence. Before races even began I couldn't help but think about how much it would hurt and that I couldn't do it. Changing my mentality was a long and hard process that I am still working on. It is like working on my jumping form where I continually practice runway speed and pop-ups. I have to continue to practice self- believe, suppressing subconscious doubts, and learning to accept even when I do poorly.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the people the most. Through track I have met a group of people I consider part of my family and I will miss not getting to see them regularly.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
The best advice I can give is to have confidence and to remember the quote "mind over matter". Also to have a selective memory. That is forgetting any loses and feelings of doubt while also remembering how it felt to win and and using that for motivation.
What advice have your coaches had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
The most important advice my coaches have given me is to have confidence and to go for it.
What are your college plans?
I plan on attending the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY. I either want to major in bio-medical engineering or some other medical related profession. I will also be running for the track team where I will be competing in the jumps and hurdles.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank my coaches, teammates and some of the parents that have helped me on and off the track these past four years. You guys mean a lot to me and I love you.
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