SAN ANTONIO – The UTSA cross country team is three meets into the 2019 season. Before UTSA's next meet in College Station on Oct. 19, get to know a few of the Roadrunners student-athletes. Today, learn all about freshman Harrison Wade!
A native of Sydney, Australia, Wade is coming off a 35th place finish at the Lakefront Invitational in Chicago on Sept. 28.
At what age did you begin running competitively?
HW: 13 years old.
Why did you start running competitively / under what circumstances did you begin focusing on the sport?
HW: My dad started following a training plan for a fun run and he dragged me along with him.
What is your earliest memory of distance running?
HW: Running up and down my local park with friends to train for school cross country.
Who is your inspiration in competition and why?
HW: My mum and dad. They have sacrificed a lot to allow me to follow my dreams. I admire their work ethic.
Who is a former collegiate or professional athlete whom you admire?
HW: Eliud Kipchoge. His mental approach to running is unrivalled and he has stayed humble despite his success.
Why family members have made the biggest impact on your life and why?
HW:My dad Adrian, mum Jacqui and younger brother Logan. My mum and dad have taught me that discipline and hard work are what drives success.
Why did you decide to attend UTSA?
HW: UTSA has a great reputation for its engineering majors and coach Dave Hartman has coached many successful athletes.
What are your team and individual goals at UTSA?
HW: Qualify for nationals in both cross country and track. As a team we want to place in the top three in conference at cross country championships.
What is your academic major?
HW: Electrical engineering. I have always loved math and physics so electrical engineering seemed like a logical choice.
What are your career goals?
HW: Work in developing sustainable and clear renewable energy solutions.
What do you enjoy doing outside of running and school?
HW: Reading and eating good food!
Do you have any pets? What are their names and what role do they play in your life?
HW: I have two dogs at home in Australia. They are both labradoodles named Baily and Chess. They are my entertainment and are great for cuddles!
What is something most people might not know about you?
HW: I lived in Canada for a year, when I was just three years old.
What would you like to be known for as a UTSA student-athlete?
HW: A hard worker, both in the classroom and on the track.
What advice would you give to a young athlete who would like to one day be in your shoes?
HW: Don't underestimate the power of a good routine! Getting up early in the morning and working harder is easier if your body is expecting it.
- UTSA -