Ro Paschal: Fired up to Be a Grizzly


Ro Paschal has helped make Mancos into a perennial contender in the ranks of 2A distance. Photo by Alan Versaw.

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Ro Paschal's best marks:

400 Meters - 51.98

800 Meters - 1:59.26

1600 Meters - 4:26.39 (at altitude)

3200 Meters - 10:20.07

5K Cross Country - 16:07.15 (at altitude)

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Tell us about your decision to sign with Adams State. What made the school for you?

There were a lot of factors that went into my college decision including affordability, location, diversity and a smaller student body. However, what really sold the school for me was Coach Martin. On my visits I got tons of one-on-one time with him, and he just has a way of making you feel welcome and wanted. Adams State also finds itself consistently at the top of the Division II rankings, so I can't wait to be a part of that!     

What will you be studying at Adams State?

I am currently undecided but am considering going into education.

Did the success of Kelsey Corbin's career at Adams have any bearing on your decision to sign with the Grizzlies?

Kelsey was a senior when I was in middle school, and I think everyone on the team really looked up to her. For the past few years, I have followed her running success and it has been awesome to see all of her improvement, especially over the course of this last year. To see her develop into an All-American gives me the hope that I may enjoy similar success.

During your time in high school, 2A has been absolutely loaded with boys distance talent. Has that encouraged you, discouraged you, or maybe sometimes a little of both?

As a freshman and sophomore, I really didn't do much in the 2A distance field. My class is absolutely loaded with guys like Jack Plantz, Joel Such and obviously Paul Roberts. I really wanted to compete with these guys so it motivated me to start training a little over the summer and winter. It has been so much fun racing those guys and I don't think I would be anywhere near where I am currently without them.

What has been the top highlight of high school career?

The highlight of my high school career thus far would have to be the state cross country meet my junior year. We came into the season not even ranked in the top ten for 2A. Throughout the season my teammates and I were dominating all of the local meets. I think we ended up winning around 6 or 7 meets as a team. When we made it to state everyone was still questioning whether or not we could compete. We all went out and raced extremely well and brought back a runner-up trophy for Mancos.

With your high school career headed down to its final month, what are you focused on?

At this point I am really just focused on staying healthy and enjoying every second that I am on the track and competing with my friends. Hopefully everything will culminate into some great races at the state meet!