Butler Junior Tretez Kinnaird has committed to the University of Louisville. This week he was named to the Boys Distance Ten to Watch for the nation by MileSplit. Last weekend he set the Mason-Dixon Games 800m record with a 1:55.13.
In 2011 Kinnaird earned All-American honors with his sixth place finish at New Balance Outdoor Nationals in the 800m Run. He ran a 1:50.88 in that race. He then went on to run a 1:50.56 in the World Youth Qualifier in South Carolina, earning a ticket to the World Youth Championships in France. His time in South Carolina ranks #2 All-time in Kentucky. In France, he finished 12th overall in the 800 Meter Run with a 1:50.64.
When asked why he choose the University of Louisville Tretez said, "What lead me to U of L was just the total feel of the university. The coaches, campus, my family, and many more reasons. I love the program and I feel I can make an impact on the team as soon as I get there."
He then went on to say about committing during his junior year, "I decided to commit kind of early because I feel that Louisville would really fit me and I want to be a "Hometown Hero". Anything can happen, but right now I'm settled on U of L."
Butler Head Cross Country Coach Brandon Lesher said about Tre, "This is a wonderful opportunity for Tretez. There are some great middle distance runners in the Big East and the coaching staff at the University of Louisville is top notch. Combine that with Tre's unbelievable talent and work ethic, it will be exciting to see his improvement. We still have goals to focus on while he is still in high school but all his training is geared towards a smooth transition into college and continued growth throughout his career. It will also be exciting for him to hook back up with his old rival/training partner, Andrew Stewart. Most people don't realize the two use to train together in the winter and summer months. They are good friends and work very well together. THis is an exciting time for Tretez and I am very proud of him!!!!"
