Senior Sendoff: Nathan Byrd - Cooper




Athlete Name: Nathan Byrd 

School: Cooper


What was your most memorable meet and why?

My most memorable meet was the 2017 State Championships because I finished 8th individual setting a new PR and getting 4th as a team. 


Where did you face your biggest competition?

I faced my biggest competition at the state meet going up against some of the top runners in the state to fight for a top 15 spot.


Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?

Finishing 8th in the state was probably the pinnacle of my high school running career.


If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

I would've changed my mentality. I wasn't as competitive of a runner mentality-wise the first few years but once I started to focus on competing I really started to improve.


What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

I struggled with some ankle problems freshman year, illness late season my sophomore year, and hip problems junior year. Senior year I have been very healthy, however it was really hard losing regionals because we were down a man due to him being dq'd. Coming back from that and getting a trophy at state was a huge milestone.


What will you miss the most?

More than anything I will miss my team, we are not just a team but best friends outside of running as well. I think we are one of the most tight-knit teams out there. 


What are your post-high school or college plans?

I plan to continie running in college however I am unsure at the time where I will go. Also unsure about my college major but am looking to do something in the healthcare field.


Who would you like to say thank you to?

I would just like to thank both of my amazing coaches, Eric Vanlaningham and Matt Wallace. Great coaches and great runners. There aren't many coaches out there that will do long runs with their team. They also are great friends and role models.