By Austin Gallagher
Ron Smith, a 21 year-old-junior track athlete here at KU, was voted captain of the team during the winter of his sophomore season. Ronnie brings an incredible fire to the team and continues to motivate them day in and day out.
Q.Where did you grow up?
- Trevose, Pa.
What high school did you attend?
- Neshaminy High School
Q.What’s your major?
- Accounting
Q.When did you begin running track?
- Sixth grade
Q.What position do you play?
- Sprints
Q.Do you hope to play professionally?
- Although it is unlikely, competing for Team USA in the Olympics would be awesome.
Q.Who are your heroes in the sport?
- Usain Bolt
Q.What’s your greatest strength?
- Hard work, motivating others, being a good influence on my team and a great leader.
Q.What’s your biggest weakness?
- I put too much pressure on myself to win sometimes.
Q.What do you do in your spare time?
- I like traveling, seeing different places, trying new things, hanging out with my family, friends and girlfriend.
Q.What’s your most memorable sports moment?
- The outdoor PSAC conference championship meet last spring was awesome. It wasn’t that I competed great, but seeing everyone on the team accomplish their goals was really rewarding.
Q.Why do you enjoy running track?
- It keeps me focused, discplined and gives me a good routine. I enjoy the competition, bonding with the team and developing a brotherhood.
Q.Have you had any significant injuries?
- Luckily, I have not had any injuries in the sport.
Q.What do you want to do with your sport in the future?
- I’ll put it on my resume because it shows dedication and hard work. If given the opportunity to coach, I would definitely do it.
Q.How did you get into your sport?
- I was always fast growing up. When I played football, I was always the fastest player out there, and what better sport to use your speed for?
Q.How old were you when you started?
- 13-years-old
Q.What was your greatest achievement in the sport?
- My high school relay finished fourth place at the Penn relays in the 4x100m relay.
Q.Greatest obstacle you had to overcome?
- Adjusting to the level of competition from middle school through college.
Q.How would your life be different now if you hadn’t participated in your sport?
- I would just be lazy, out of shape and my grades would be poor.