Salute to Seniors: Class of 2016
Name: Zach Davis
High school: Wando High School
Event PRs: 800-1:55.92 1000(in)-2:37.30 1600m-4:32.77 5K(xc)-17:15.55
Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, and boating
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My favorite race from my high school career was when I ran the 800 leg of the Sprint Medley Relay at the Mellow Mushroom Relays last year. This is our home meet at Wando, and this event consists of 200-200-400-800. Coach put me in the B team because he knew I would run a strong anchor leg, and I could still place well. When I was handed the baton, we were in eighth place, and at least 50 meters behind the leader, which was our A team. I decided that I had nothing to lose and went out very hard. Over the next 800 meters I gave it all and finished second, with only my teammate finishing ahead of me. This was my first time breaking two minutes unofficially, and it was very exciting.
Out of all your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
I believe my greatest accomplishment is getting the opportunity to run Track/Xc at Clemson University. I had planned on going to Clemson for a while, and I am very blessed to be able to continue my running career as a Tiger.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
If I could restart, I would put more emphasis on my pre-season training and run more indoor to prep for the outdoor season.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle as a student-athlete is balancing everything. Taking Ap classes while competing at the level I do is tough.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss my coach and my team the most. Over the years I have grown close to them, and it is difficult to say goodbye.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Don't wait till you are an upperclassman to work hard and compete with the older athletes. Your high school years will fly by so make them count.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals?
My coaches have absolutely had a massive impact on my performance on the track, my work ethic in the classroom, and my goals for the future. My coaches had never doubted me and I have come a long way since freshman year.
What kind of impact did your family have on your time as a high school student-athlete?
My family has been a huge part of my success as a student-athlete. They have traveled with me to many meets, hosted team pasta dinners, and been a great support group for me.
What are your college or post high school plans?
I will be running Track/Xc for Clemson University where I will be studying Engineering.
What do you hope to achieve after high school?
I hope to work hard at Clemson to be the best student-athlete i can.
Do you see yourself coaching in the future? Please explain and if so, what level and why?
I would like to be a volunteer coach one day. I currently volunteer at the Mount Pleasant Track Club from time to time and I really enjoy sharing my passion with younger athletes.
Shout-outs?
Shoutout to Coach Davis. Your impact on me has changed who I am and will lead me to a successful future. We have come a long way since you cut me from the cross country team freshman year, and looking back, I wouldn't change a thing.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would like to have a successful collegiate running career at Clemson University and inspire younger runners with my achievements one day.