The senior from West Stokes, running in his third cross country season, has demonstrated powerful motivation to excel.
Motivation is an interesting thing in runners. Some seem to have it naturally, while others struggle mightily to find it from race to race. Sometimes, a major event can create motivation that wasn't there before. Jason Barber is motivated by his result from last year's state meet, even though the cause of his results (illness on the day of the race that caused him to finish 58th) was completely out of his control. Such an event, though, can leave a lasting mark, and could even transform a runner's career. It's clear that the West Stokes senior has acted on his motivations, as he posted a 9:56 for the 3200 at the 2A outdoor track state meet, and then opened the season by running 10:03.33 at the Pioneer Clash of the Classes. In a 2A field that only returned one individual under 16:20 last year, Jason has to be considered a potential candidate to bring home a championship.
Jason Barber's Athlete Profile
https://nc.milesplit.com/athletes/1217208-jason-barber