Salute to seniors: Thomas McLeroy

1. What was your most memorable race/competition?

My most memorable race was the Eastside 15 Mile Relay in 2010 with Ben Sessions, Addison Helms, and Trey Snow. Even though our fifth relay didn't show up, it was amazing to cheer on your teammates in a cross country race you run in yourself.

2. Where did you face your biggest competition?

My biggest completion was in Greensboro, N.C. for the USATF region championships for track in July 2010. I got to run against Clemson's Ty McCormack and stayed with him and the pack for a lap. It went downhill from there.

3. Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?

Getting to see myself and my teammates succeed was a great honor. It is amazing to see how much everyone improves over the course of a couple years.

4. If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?

I would train a lot harder and do the core workouts my coach would encourage me to do. They definitely would've helped in the long run, no pun intended.

5. What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

The most difficult obstacles I had to overcome were the steeplechase barriers. They were rough on the calves. Other than that, just staying motivated and keeping my head high after a bad race.

6. What will you miss the most?

I will miss having a team and seeing everyone from Greenville at meets. The running community in Greenville and SC is one of the strongest around and it will be tough to stay away from it. I love getting to see and talk to all of my friends from other schools at big meets.

7. Do you have any advice for younger athletes?

Be cool, stay in school. Do not get discouraged in any race. Look at how short your legs are. Once you get taller, you'll get faster. Have courage and don't give up on running. You could be a state champion one day. Hard work pays off.

8. How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals?

My coaches have always been supportive throughout my running career. They have always advised the team to make smart decisions and don't do anything you will regret in the future. Coach Stewart, Coach Tinga, Coach Leonard, and Coach Gantt of Greenville Tech Charter have always wanted me to push the limits in everything I do. Coach (Ed) Boehmke and Coach (Travis) Alexander of Eastside have been great mentors to their team over the years I have known them and always give good running advice.

9. What are your college plans?

I'll be attending Winthrop University in the fall and hope to start a club xc/track team since they do not currently have one. I also hope to stay as involved as possible with HS running by covering meets.

10. Shout-Outs?

Coach Leonard, Coach Stewart, Coach Tinga, Coach Gantt, Coach Boehmke, Coach Alexander, John Olson, Kevin McLeroy, my parents, Ben Sessions, Addison Helms, Jeff Milliman, and all of my running friends throughout South Carolina. Keep doing what you do best!