East County Athlete of the Week: Tristan McWilliam

Tristan McWilliam is a freshman boys track and field runner at The Out-of-Door Academy. McWilliam broke the school record in the 3,200-meter race (9:56.54) March 29 at the Indian Rocks Cavonis Invite at Indian Rocks High. The previous record was set in 2005 by Connor Revord (10:15.43). McWilliam also won the 1,600-meter race (4:30.95) April 5 at the Keswick Crusader Invitational in St. Petersburg. 

When did you start running?

I ran cross-country all three years at Nolan Middle, but that was just going to meets, there was no real training. My mom (Kamara McWilliam) works at Nolan and heard about the cross-country program. She wanted me to do it. This is my first "real" year of running and training. 

What is the appeal to you?

Well, running is not particularly enjoyable for anyone, I think. I like the feeling of completing something. You can set times (as a goal) and then shoot for them. 

What is your favorite event?

Any long distance run. Those are the ones I am good at. Sprints are too quick, I don't think they count as "running."

What is your favorite memory?

Finishing third in the 3K (10:06.13) at the Florida Youth Running Association Middle School Cross Country Championships last year. For still being in my first few years as a runner, it was insane that I got to that level already. 

What is your biggest challenge?

During races, it can be boring. It is the same thing over and over again. Your mind can drift off and you think about other things or lose focus. You usually wake up when the crowds cheer. Then there is a sense of getting closer and closer to the end. 

What is your dream vacation?

Going somewhere with snow. I do not like the heat much. I am from Manchester, England. My family moved here seven years ago. 

What is your favorite food?

Sausage and mash. It is an English thing. 

Which superpower would you pick?

Flying. You could go anywhere and do anything you wanted. 

What is your biggest fear?

I am pretty terrified of clowns. Some clowns just do not look right. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Keep on running. Look forward, not backward. 

Finish this sentence: "Tristan McWilliam is ... "

... Fast. My times are pretty good.