Garrison Burchell is a 2013 North Laurel graduate. He was a two time state qualifier in Track and Field in the 4x800 relay and a three time state qualifier in Cross Country.
What was your most memorable race/event?
The 2012 Boyle County Invitational. I had not had the season I had expected but this race was the turning point to the season. I believe I was ranked 6th or 7th going into the race but I told my coach I was going for Top 2 and I passed the 3rd place finisher in the last few yards to capture 2nd.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
Region 7AAA is a very tough region with many up and coming teams but my biggest competition would have to be Pulaski County and Madison Central.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Probably making it to State a combined 5 times in my three years running.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I wish I would have trained more in the off season to prepare myself better. I feel like I could of accomplished more with a little more dedication.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Playing soccer and running cross country at the same time was very difficult. I didn't get home until 8 pm most days because I had two practices back to back. I had to miss a lot of running due to soccer and I can't remember a day where I was not sore or I had to fight through injury but it was worth it.
What will you miss the most?
My team and my coaches, they were like a second family.
What advice you would give to younger athletes?
Don't take a day off, if you want to be good then you have to work hard.
What influence has your coaches had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coaches, specifically my cross county coaches Rachel and Greg Gaynor instilled a great work ethic in me and they are the reason for any success that I had. They were more than just coaches, they taught me to always do my best at anything I take on.
What are your plans for college or joining the workforce next year?
I am attending EKU and I am currently undecided in a major.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
My parents for putting up with my crazy schedule and always believing in me. They always kept me grounded and did anything I asked to help me out.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Cherish every moment as a high school athlete.