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Runner stories

The power within me, my squad beside me.

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Brooks Future Run sets up youth runners for success.

When young people enter the running community, good things happen. Studies have shown that involvement in sports, including running, at an early age promises lifelong benefits for young people in their mental health, leadership skills, and self-expression.

Through our Brooks Future Run program, we chatted with several high school athletes in Seattle, WA to get a pulse on what drives youth runners. These student athletes shared how they got started in the sport, what inspires them, and what it means to be on a team.

Lincoln High School - from left: Owen S., Quinn H., Evan K., Dahna K., and Ella B.

Lincoln High School - from left: Owen S., Quinn H., Evan K., Dahna K., and Ella B.

How did you get started in running?

I think I fell in love with this sport because it’s a safe microcosm for competition. It’s a challenging space without real life consequences.”

Tali B. (they/them) Lincoln High School

“I just wanted to leave my house because my parents were pretty strict.”

Thien-Van T. (she/her) Franklin High School

“I wanted a sport that was focused on individual work but had a team aspect.”

Mia W. (she/her) Franklin High School
Franklin High School - From left: Adi F., Simone L., and Mia W.

Franklin High School - From left: Adi F., Simone L., and Mia W.

Who or what inspires you to run?

All of my teammates are inspiring. I really love doing this with my friends.”

Emma H. (she/her) Hazen High School

“Once I started running, there was a senior on the team. He was one of the first people I ran with, and he saw more strength in me than I saw in myself.”

Tai W. (he/him) Franklin High School

“My teammate Max. He’s definitely the fastest person on the team, and he pushes me to be faster, to be my best self.”

AJ B. (he/him) Hazen High School
Hazen High School - from left: Max R., Emma H., Angelica N., and Gavin P.

Hazen High School - from left: Max R., Emma H., Angelica N., and Gavin P.

What do you love about being on a team?

There are so many influences. I’m running my own races, but to be able to fall back on my teammates, not just when I’m struggling, but when I’m doing well, too, it’s the best.”

Gavin P. (he/him) Hazen High School

“It’s special that you can focus on your own personal results, but you have this group of people around you to support you.”

Angelica N. (she/her) Hazen High School

“One of the best parts about being on a team is definitely the huge pasta dinners.”

Evan K. (he/him) Lincoln High School

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The Future Run Collection

About Brooks Future Run

Through the Brooks Future Run platform, we work to create as many opportunities as possible for young people to discover the lifelong benefits of the run and its powerful community — made even stronger when they add their unique perspective. Learn more about Brooks Future Run.

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