Baylee Shofner just graduated from Green County High School after finishing sixth in the 2012 Class A 800m Run at the Kentucky State Track Meet. She was also 9th overall in the Class A Kentucky State Cross Country Meet last fall.
What was your most memorable race?
My most memorable race was my very last high school cross country race, Class A state. Not only was it the most memorable race because it was my last race, but also because I placed higher than I ever had before at State. After a 16th place finish in 2010, my goal was to make top 15 and medal in 2011. I met the goal with a 9th place finish individually and a 3rd place team finish making this race the most memorable.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
The most competition I faced all year was at the Franklin County Invitational. The race included top runners from all the classes in the state. And, of course, the Class A State meet is always very competitive.
Out of all your high school accomplishments, which stands out most?
Placing 4th as a team in 2010 and placing 3rd in 2011 are the accomplishments that stand out most to me. Being such a small team, we always dreamed of making it up on the podium. 3rd place was the highest girls finish our school had ever had. I will always remember these two accomplishments.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your running career in high school?
There’s not much I would change about my running career in high school. I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute as a Green County Dragon. I have been blessed with amazing coaches and teammates. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
A few difficult obstacles I had to overcome over the years were mono, vitamin deficiencies, coaching changes and misaligned hips.
What will you miss most?
I will miss many things about high school cross country. Firstly, I will miss the support from all the parents and community of Green County. We always had the greatest fans. Secondly, I will miss the best coaching staff I could have possibly asked for. Our team would have never made it as far as we did without the leadership from our amazing coaches. Lastly and mostly, I will miss my teammates. Words cannot describe the relationships and bonds built among our team. These girls hold a special place in my heart and I wish them the best of luck in seasons to come.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
My advice to younger athletes would be to train hard always (even in the summer), listen to your coaches, become a family with your teammates and never give up!
What are your college plans?
I plan to attend Western Kentucky University in the fall and will become a member of the cross country team. I am currently undecided on a major. I look forward to becoming a Hilltopper with previous competitors!
