Salute to Senior: Kate Padget of Dutch Fork

My most memorable race ever would most definitely have to be my final cross country race. Cross country was and is such a significant part of my life, and having to cross the finish line for the last time that evening was one of the most bittersweet days. I was able to PR, and had some sweet emotional moments with my closest friends. However, that morning, I had also gotten accepted into my top college pick, Coastal Carolina. As one chapter of my life finished up, a new one started. That day was a simple reminder that when one door closes, another one opens.

One of my most proud accomplishments that seems to stand out the most to me would be that from eighth to 12th grade, I was able to shave seven minutes off of my 5K time.

If I could do it all again, I would start track and field earlier. I was so intimidated by the speed and athletic nature of many of the athletes, and I simply didn't feel fast enough. However, I ended up LOVING it. I didn't start track until my junior year of high school, and I so wish I had gotten over my fear of "embarrassing myself."

One of the more difficult obstacles I had to overcome was getting "unstuck" from a time. For instance, it took me 3 years to finally break out of the 26's for a 5k. I was able to get into the 23's my junior year, and I remember how gratifying the feeling of working that hard for something was.

If I could tell younger athletes anything, I would simply say to just GO for it. This can apply to lots of things in life, but it's something good to live by. You never know what you're capable of until you give it your ALL. You might even surprise yourself!

I wouldn't be anywhere near where I am now without my coaches. Not only have I grown significantly as an athlete, but I have gained a new sense of confidence that I used to never have. I've gained a sense of self as well, as my coaches have guided me through some of my toughest moments.

My family was one of my biggest supporters throughout high school. They cheered for me all the same whether I came in the lead or last in a race, and came to almost every single race for the last five years.

In the fall, I am attending Coastal Carolina University, and studying marine science at their honors college.

After high school, I hope to push myself to always put my all into the things I love. Whether it be to continue running or establishing a new academic strength, cross country/track and field has taught me what can happen when you dedicate yourself to something that is important to you.

After high school, I hope to push myself to always put my all into the things I love. Whether it be to continue running or establishing a new academic strength, cross country/track and field has taught me what can happen when you dedicate yourself to something that is important to you.

I would absolutely love to coach in the future. However, I feel as if I would best coach beginner athletes. I know the feeling of being intimated by the older and faster athletes, and sometimes all it takes is a little guidance and push to get where you need to be, and I would be honored to be that person in those athlete's lives.

Coach Lindler, Coach Mincel, Coach Kiser, Coach Taylor, and the entire Dutch Fork team!!!

If there was one thing in the world I could do, I I would ensure all animals in need of rescue/adoption would be in a healthy and safe home.