XC Interview – Caleb Drake

 

 XC Interview -  Caleb Drake

This interview features Caleb Drake, senior, Pleasant Valley High School, Bettendorf.  Caleb was 7^th in the 2011 State 4A Cross Country Championships with a 5k PR – 15:30.  His track PR’s are 800 (1:58.13), 1600m (4:27.69), and 3200m (5^th at Drake in 2012, 9:23.22).  So far in 2012 cross country, Caleb  finished 2^nd at the Spartan Invitational (16:10) and 3^rd at the Bobcat Inv (15:46).

When & how did you get started in cross country, or generally in your running career?

I ran track in Jr. High, but my running career started as a freshman in high school.  I did not do cross country my freshman year, but I did do track.  That track season is when I was introduced to what real running is (long mileage runs, hill workouts, tempo runs, etc.).  I didn’t actually become a committed runner until my sophomore cross country season.

Person/people most influential to your success in cross country, or generally in your running career?

The first most important person in my ability to run at all is Jesus Christ.  I believe He is the one that has blessed me with the ability to run in the first place.  The Lord has definitely also placed other people in my life who have helped me get to the place I am today.  I think the two people who have been put in my life that have helped most are my sister (Onna Drake) and my coach (Erik Belby).  At the start of my running career, my sister would always challenge me and helped discipline me to get out of bed or stop being lazy.  She is a committed runner and her love for running inspired me at the start and still does today.

Your cross country coach(es)?

Erik Belby, Mark Wilson

Keys to your successful training program?

It’s basically all come through coach Belby.  He is very knowledgeable when it comes to running; and he has taught me how to run and train wisely. Without Belby as a coach, I wouldn’t be the runner I am today. 

Why do you enjoy cross country?

I love to compete; and I have developed a love for just being out running.  It’s enjoyable to be in shape and be able to use the abilities I have been blessed with.

Your favorite cross-country meet(s)?

There is nothing like running on our home course.  The Spartan invite is my favorite meet to start the season with.  I also like competing at State.  The field of runners are fast; and it’s a great course to run on. 
 

Cross country athlete(s) you most enjoy competing against?

Anyone who is going to push me to my limit.  Also competing against myself and seeing how hard I can really work and push myself.

Your greatest cross country experience in your career so far?

 Being All-State in 2011.  It was a great experience to be on the deck at Fort Dodge.

Goals for the 2012 cross country season?

Compete at every meet to my fullest and lead my team as best as I can by serving them.  Also to have fun and give all the glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Long-term goals in cross  country, or generally in your running career?

I plan to compete at the college level and continue my career in that way.  Just continue to use the ability that I have been blessed with.