-Athlete Name: Clayton Murphy
-School: Tri-Village High School
-Year of Graduation: 2013
-Best time in a 5K race and in which meet:
15:46 in the Anna Invitational in 2011
-Tell us how your summer training is going?
My summer training is going great my speed I gained from track is now starting to work with my distance conditioning I have been working at hard.
-What are your goals for the upcoming season?
Win the CCC conference meet and qualify for state and compete for a podium spot.
-How long have you been running and how did you get started?
I have been running since 3rd grade where I started running Hershey Track and Field competitions. I started to run because I was at the time one of the faster runners in my school. And my gym teacher said why not compete.
-Will you be competing anywhere out of state this season?
I plan to compete at Nike XC Nationals at the end of the season.
-What is your favorite course to run in Ohio?
My favorite course would be Scioto Downs. That course was awesome. The atmosphere of the state meet and being down on the infield with thousands of screaming fans looking down on you. There is no other feeling that compares to the start of a state race at Scioto Downs.
-What is the toughest course to run in Ohio?
My home course from last year would have to be the toughest. From creek crossings, to numerous hills almost straight up. Mixed with rolling natural hills. It made for a tough yet fun course to both compete and practice on.
-What meet during the regular season do you put extra emphasize on to compete well at?
I usually emphasize my last regular season meet at Anna. We don't compete at big meets so I mainly use my season to prepare for the post season races (Regionals, State, etc.) and this is my last race before that stretch. I use this race to see where I sit and if I am mentally ready for the end stretch.
-What is your favorite cross country race so far in your high school career?
The Regional Race of my sophomore year would have to be my favorite. I came into the race at Troy thinking I should qualify for state but knew nothing was secure. When I finished the race placing 3rd securing my spot for state I thought I was dreaming. My hard work had paid off and my dream had come true after coming up so short the year before.
-Favorite cross country memory?
The night before my first high school race at Greenville. One of the biggest races we run and I was so nervous the night before. I got absolutely no sleep and could not eat anything.
-When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?
I enjoy being outside playing basketball, golf, or just hanging out with friends.
-Favorite quote?
"Obstacles are put in our way to see if we really want to reach our goals or if we just thought we did."
-What's on your Ipod when you go out for runs?
I like to listen to Rap and Hip Hop like Eminem, Drake, Lil Wayne, Flo Rida up beat songs to keep me going or get me pumped.
-What professional athlete would you most like to meet?
I would love to meet Tim Tebow. He plays and works for far more than fame and money. He lives his life for him. His work ethic is like no other.
