Salute To Seniors: Connor Ahrens
What was your most memorable race?
My first memorable race was the first one I ever ran in at the high school level. It was the Rhinelander Invite at the beginning of the 2008 season and I ran my first ever 5k in 18:59 and was congratulated by my fellow seniors.
What would you consider your biggest competition?
My biggest competition by far was either the Roy Griak Invite, but as far as serious competition I would have to go with the WIAA State Division 2 meet!
Out of all of your high school accomplishments what stands out the most?
My teammates voting for me to receive the Punchy Reich Award that is awarded to the athlete on the team that his/her peers thinks has the following traits: leadership, team comradery, and an outstanding athlete.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would have wanted to get to know past seniors from my freshman year and not gotten injured my Junior year and been smart about it! Other than those two things ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
My injury in the season of 2010!!! (hip flexor)
What will you miss the most?
I will for sure miss my teammates the most...over the past few years that I have known some of them they have made XC and Track the BEST 4 years of my life so far!!! And honestly I will for sure miss them the most when I go to college!
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
YES! Always give a 110% to every practice and every meet and mainly make sure to have fun and enjoy meeting new people through running in high school!
What are your college plans?
I plan on running cross country at UW-Stout and I am still undecided as to a major...leaning towards a degree in either history, engineering, or shipping management.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would love to again say thank you to my main head coach, Coach John Zuelsdorf for an amazing past 4 years that no one could replace or duplicate!
Is there anything else you would like to add?
High school goes by fast... so snag every opportunity with your new friends and just enjoy the great sport of running!