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State-Bound Blue Jay: Logan’s effort rewarded
IRONTON, Mo. — Charleston’s Brown Logan has punched his ticket to the MSHSAA Class 2 State Meet, set to take place at Gans Creek Cross Country Course in Columbia, Missouri on Saturday, Nov. 9.
“It was a surreal feeling,” Logan said. “It took a second to set in that all the hard work over the last four years had finally paid off, but once it did I felt ecstatic.”
Logan’s journey to the state meet was not without its challenges. At the district meet held at the Arcadia Valley Sports Complex on November 2, Logan secured his spot by finishing 25th with a time of 18 minutes and 30.74 seconds.
Reflecting on the race, Logan shared, “Coming around the mile-and-a-half marker, I was in a big group and knew some of us wouldn’t qualify. So gaining the confidence to make a move halfway through the race to separate myself from the pack was tough.”
This determination to push through adversity has been a defining characteristic of Logan’s running style. Over the years, he has honed his strategy, learning to pace himself effectively and conserve energy for the crucial moments of the race.
“Letting the first mile roll, hammering the second mile, then giving my all in the third has worked wonders for me,” he explained.
As Logan prepares for the state meet, he is both excited and aware of the formidable competition he will face.
“The competition will clearly be the best that Class 2 has to offer,” he said. “It is exciting to race with new faces and experience new types of racers.”
The Gans Creek course, known for its speed and tricky tangents, presents a new challenge that Logan is eager to tackle.
Logan’s goals for the state meet are centered around competition and personal growth.
“I am just going out there to compete with the athletes around me, in hopes that a fast time is a byproduct of this plan,” he said.
His approach is not just about winning but about leaving everything on the course and learning from the experience.
Beyond the physical demands of the sport, cross country has played a pivotal role in shaping Logan’s character and outlook on life.
“I don’t think I would be the person I am today without cross country,” he concluded. “Through the trials and tribulations, I have gained a better outlook on life.”
The discipline and work ethic he developed through running have transcended into other areas of his life, influencing his academic and personal pursuits.
Logan’s journey is also a testament to the support system that surrounds him. He expressed gratitude for his teammates, particularly Dadrian Jones and Damon Jackson, who have been by his side throughout his high school career.
Most importantly, he acknowledged the unwavering support of his coach and mother, whose guidance has been instrumental in his success.