Salute to Seniors: Jacob Ho of Spring Valley

What was your most memorable race/competition?
The JV open mile at state qualifier, when I competed as a freshman. It was the first race I ever won.

How did you handle the suspension of the 2020 outdoor season?
I've handled it well. I am disappointed but I have still been training and keeping my hopes up.

Out of all your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
Our team's third-place finish in the 4x800-meter relay last year at state. (watch the race)

If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
I would have trained more over winter breaks.

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Really bad shin-splints as a sophomore athlete.

What will you miss the most?
The fun conversations our team would have during our runs.

Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Get in your mileage. If you just keep working hard at it and persevering, you will get better and can surpass those who don't.

How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals?
My coaches have always pushed me to aim higher than I normally would. I am the kind of person to set safe goals but my coaches have always tried to push me to my full potential.

What kind of impact did your family have on your time as a high school student-athlete?
They were amazing supporters and really helped me manage the balance between school and sports. They have been a major help with the transportation and preparation of my races as well.

What are your college or post-high school plans?
I am thinking about joining the cross-country club team in college.

What do you hope to achieve after high school?
I hope to get a degree and work as an engineer. 

Do you see yourself coaching in the future? Please explain and if so, what level and why?
As of right now, I do not think so.

Shout-outs?
I would like to shout out Steven Andreen for being a role model for me as a young athlete and teaching me what it means to work hard.

If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?

I'd like to go sky diving because I think it would feel really cool to free fall.