Shrine Bowl Run interview: Nicholas Kilbarger of Fort Mill

Name: Nicholas Kilbarger
Interests: Skateboarding and mountain biking
Academic interest: Engineering
Personal best: 5000: 16:56

What does it mean to be named to the Shrine Bowl Run team and helping the hospital? 
I am very proud to be participating in the Shrine Bowl Run this year and taking advantage of this great opportunity. It feels great to be able to help out the hospital. I was in the hospital for a few days when I was diagnosed with diabetes so I know how important it is for hospitals to have what they need to make the experience as beneficial as possible.

What did you hear about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year? 
I had not heard anything about the Shrine Bowl Run before this year. I had to look it up when I was asked to submit information for my application because I had no idea what it was.

What do you hope to experience during the event?
My biggest hope for this event is to see all of my friends from cross country again for one last time, this time in a non-competitive atmosphere.

How are you preparing to run with a football?
I have run with a water bottle in my hand, switching to either hand while I run to get used to holding things when I run. I don't think I need to prepare very much to run with a football.

How would you rate your senior season? 
I have loved my senior season and found it very successful for both me and my team this year. I would rate it as one of my favorite high school athletics seasons. 

What future goals do you have? 
My future goals are to be successful in college and branch out and try new activities and get involved with different clubs that weren't available while I was in high school. 

Have you made the decision to compete at the next level? Please explain. 
I have decided that I do not want to run in college mainly because I want to have time to do other things.

How did you get involved with the sport and when? 
I got involved with cross country sophomore year to originally get in shape for the upcoming soccer season. It became my main sport junior year, and by senior year, I was in love with running. 

Do you have any relation or know someone that has attended the Shriners Hospital?
No, I do not know anyone who has been at the Shriners Hospital.

How have you seen the sport change in the state? Please explain.
I haven't really seen the sport change very much in this state while I have been running cross country.

What was your motivation for your final XC season? 
My motivation for my last cross country season came from the realization that this was my last chance to be successful and this was the fastest I was ever going to be, so I wanted to really make the most of it and stay focused on my goals.

If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why? 
If I could do anything I would find an easy cure for diabetes because I don't like having it.