Jacob Brizendine
Oldham County
What was your most memorable meet and why?
My most memorable meet was XC State my junior year. I had a great team that year with some great seniors and even though the team wasn't able to perform to their greatest it was still a great day. I was able to get 5th and get on the podium, which was an amazing feeling, I feel super blessed for that experience.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I faced my biggest competition at Foot Locker South Regional, I love going to this race because of the competition and the amount of runners that go there to run fast and qualify for nationals.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most and why?
I think one of the most memorable accomplishments was my sophomore year when my 4x800 team broke the school record running an 8:02 at state and placing 4th. Our squad had great chemistry and we had a freshman, (me) a sophomore, a junior, and senior on that squad and it was just a lot of fun.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would focus on the big picture of becoming better in the long run, and not just focusing on one season or one race when you have a whole life of running ahead of you. It's easy to just think about the season you're in and focus on the struggles or success' you are having and not think about the possibilities the future might hold. While focusing on the present is important sometimes it can make you lose sight of your goals.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I've had to overcome was an injury my senior season of XC. I had been looking forward to my senior season for a long time and I had put the work in to be the best I could be. A freak accident left me injured for a month, but with the help of one of the best physical therapists and the grace of God I was able to return for State right on time. And while I didn't have the best race my team was able to podium and that was one of my favorite memories of my High School Career.
What will you miss the most?
I'm going to miss my team and coaches the most by far. I have full confidence that I have some of the best coaches in the state and I know that I have the best teammates. I'm going to miss them and the memories made throughout the years.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Cherish this time you'll only be able to run in high school once! It's fun and it's an opportunity to meet friends you'll keep for a long time. It's important to not lose sight of the little victories and the fun things in your aspirations to be the best.
What are your post-high school or college plans?
I'm going to continue my academic and athletic career at the University Of Kentucky. Go Big Blue!
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I want to thank my teammates and friends for all their support over the years. Biggest thanks to my family and especially my parents. Mom and Dad you rock! Special thanks to my Dad for all he's done for me and my Papa Jack for making it out to every race he could. I want to thank my amazing girlfriend for all her prayers and support. I also want to thank my amazing coaches they're without a doubt the best in the state. Most importantly, I want to thank God for blessing me with this opportunity.
1 Cor. 10:31
