MileSplit RI recognizes Grant Gauthier of Bishop Hendricken as our first athlete in our Salute to Seniors’ series. Grant has been a dedicated distance runner for the Hawks throughout his career and achieved most of his best times this past outdoor season, including a ninth-place finish in the 3,000-meter run at the state meet where he ran a seven-second best of 9:01. He also had his best of 4:15 for the 1,500m at the divisional championships last month. Grant demonstrated his determination this year by overcoming an injured foot from the cross-country season that took him most of the indoor campaign to get back into shape.
What would you consider the highlight of your high school career?
The highlight of my high school career was capturing Hendricken's sixth straight cross country title, a RI record, during my junior year. It was a goal that never eluded our thoughts when training; we wanted to make history.
What was your most memorable performance?
My most memorable performance occurred at the RI outdoor state meet during my senior year. I ran 9:01, a PR of 7 seconds and a season best of 9 seconds, placing 9th and coincidentally qualified me for New England's.
What was your most difficult obstacle to overcome?
I experienced my most difficult obstacle as a senior. Toward the end of my cross country season, my performances declined and I noticed pains in my left foot. Later, I discovered three stress reactions. A persisting problem which took most of the indoor season to resolve.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?
My coach, Jim Doyle or the Beaver, continuously told my teammates and I, "strength is speed." The more committed you are to your training schedule, the more success you will experience.
What will you miss most?
I'll miss my teammates. The Hendricken distance team truly creates a bond. Every year, I was forced to say goodbye to a great group of seniors and now I'm forced to say goodbye to just an awesome group of guys.
What are your future plans?
I'll be continuing my running career at the College of Charleston, where I currently intend to major in Biology. I'm excited to meet my new teammates and continue to improve my times.
What influence has your coach (or coaches) had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
The coaches at Hendricken are the foundation of the program and its success. Everyday, they motivated and inspired my teammates and I. I owe my success and aspirations to run in college to my dedicated coaches.
Who would you like to say Thank You?
I would most importantly like to say thank you to my family and coaches. They taught me that the bad races don't define you, the next race does. Also, thank you to my teammates. I was fortunate enough to have such a large group of talented guys to train with everyday.