Sergio Jesse Gonzalez

Arcadia HS

2012

 

Best times in a 5K and 3 Mile race?

5k: 14:58 (Stanford Invitational)

3 Mile: 14:23 (Apache Invitational)

 

Tell us how your training is going?

Summer training has gone smoothly. I’m doing about the same amount of mileage as last year I believe, but all that’s changed is the speed in which I’m doing them now. As my coach always says, “Consistent smart hard work pays huge dividends”. It’s been an interesting transition from a constant No. 2 in the team, to being No. 1.

 

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

Well, my goals are mostly tied around what the team aspires to do in the incoming season. We would love to go and repeat another team State title and possibly a national title, but it won’t be an easy feat with all the great teams this year. Personally I have some challenging goals at Mt. Sac, Woodward Park, and Apache…. but all in it’s proper time.

 

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I’ve been running for precisely 4 years. I ran a mile race at the local track meet in eight grade because I was the second fastest at my middle school. At the race I ran 5:40 something qualifying me on to the next. Finally at the championship I ran a huge PB of 5:10 placing 7th in the race. After that I joined Cross Country, not knowing what it was other than a running team, hoping to get some fitness for soccer. But as it turns out, I ended up quitting soccer for running, hence the start of my career.

 

Will you be competing out of state this season?

I will actually. My team is competing in the Bob Firman invitational in Idaho. We are really excited, and hoping for the best.

 

Favorite course to run in California?

Personally I really enjoy the challenge of Mt. Sac. The hills and switchbacks are just the perfect test for the strong and weak.

 

Toughest course in California?

Once again, Mt. Sac, but tough is just a mental perception.

 

What is your favorite cross country race so far in your high school career?

I have raced many races, but the one race that I would have to say is my favorite is Mt. Sac Invitational 2010. Everything about that race was just perfect.

 

Favorite Cross Country memory?

Winning Nationals will always be engraved in my mind. It’s an unexplainable feeling.

 

When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?

Read, Design, take photos, play my violin, or simply just take naps…. a lot of naps.

 

Favorite quote?

“Everyday that I wake up, I go out and do the best with what I have. “ – Unnamed girl without an arm and a leg.