East County Athlete of the Week: Derek Robinson

Derek Robinson is a junior on the Lakewood Ranch High boys track and field team. Robinson won the 1,600-meter run (4.27.52) and the 3,200-meter run (9:57.44) at the Charlotte Invitational, held March 1 at Charlotte High. He also helped the Mustangs' 4x400-meter relay team to a second-place finish (3:35.98). 

When did you start competitive running?

I started in sixth grade. I had just moved to Lakewood Ranch area from Bradenton. I was actually attending Sarasota Military Academy Prep. The nurse there convinced me to try running, so I did. I wanted to be fast like some of the other kids there. 

What is the appeal to you?

I'm good at it. It feels natural. I ran a 5:30 mile in sixth grade. And I like winning. 

Do you prefer track and field or cross country?

Track and field. I like that you can run multiple events in the same day, and a lot of the races are quick. Anything a mile or less, I like. 

What is your favorite memory?

It's probably the other night (at the Charlotte Invitational). I had been working on breaking 10 minutes in the 3,200-meter run for three years. That was exciting for about five minutes before I realized I still had to run in the 4x400 relay. But it was good. 

What are your goals for the rest of the year?

I definitely want to break 9:50 in the 3,200 meters, and I want to break 1:55 in the 800 meters. I also want to hit 50 seconds in the 400 meters and 4:20 in the 1,600 meters. 

What is your favorite food?

I like steak cooked medium rare. 

What is your favorite movie?

I have to go with "Grown Ups."

What are your hobbies?

I like to play video games, either shooting games or Rocket League. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Anything worth your time takes time to achieve. I've seen that this year. Last year, I was struggling to get below 4:40 in the mile. This year, I'm already breaking 4:30. It just takes work. 

"Finish this sentence: Derek Robinson is … "

Fun.