Today we salute Wharton High School senior A.J. Hampton.
What was your most memorable race?
My most memorable race moment was when I won regionals in the 400. I was able to do it despite Coach Tate not being there to coach me on (he was out of town for family reasons).
I think my biggest competition over the past four years would have to be myself. Reason being is because I always had to find a way to push a little harder each race to get a new personal record. Also, battling an injury mid-way through my junior year caused me to work harder and cherish every moment on the track.
My greatest accomplishment would have to be reaching my personal best in the 400,(47.53) and officially being the fastest member in my family.
If I had the chance to go back and change something about my running career; I wouldn't change anything because in my mind everything happens for a reason.
My most difficult obstacle was overcoming my avulsion hip fracture and working back to get stronger and faster.
I will miss practicing with my teammates and competing to be the best in everything will do. Also, I will miss Coach Tate's motivational speeches before hard practices.
The advice I would give to younger athletes is to never take time off and leave any doubt in your mind that you didn't give it your all.
Coach Tate taught me how yo set goals and achieve them through hard work and determination. Also, he taught me how to be a leader and role model to younger teammates.
My college plans are to play football at Northwestern University and major in mechanical engineering.
I would like to say thank you to God, both of my parents Alonzo and Yolanda Hampton, and both of my track coaches, Coach Tate and LoJacono for always pushing me beyond my limits and making me reach for greatness.