Rising Stars: Reid S.

Every team has athletes who help shape its identity; athletes whose presence, character, and commitment quietly set the standard for everyone around them. For Elevated Distance Training, Reid, a 14-year-old 8th grader, is one of those cornerstone athletes. As one of the longest-standing members of EDT, he has spent the last four years not just growing as a runner, but leaving a genuine impact on the culture of the team.

From the beginning, Reid has been the definition of consistency. He approaches training with uncommon seriousness for his age, treating every run, drill, and detail as an opportunity to improve. He’s a true student of the sport; never missing a televised professional track meet, whether indoor or outdoor, and absorbing everything he can. His knowledge of running is advanced, but what stands out most is his eagerness to keep learning. He’s always asking thoughtful questions, always trying to understand the “why” behind each workout, and always looking for ways to push himself while staying smart and intentional.

But Reid’s impact on EDT reaches far beyond his times, though they’re impressive. With PRs of 2:42 in the 800m, 5:52 in the 1600m, 16:30 in the 4k, and 21:06 in the 5k, he has steadily built a resume that reflects both his grit and his commitment. He’s proud of his sub-6 performance at Washburn and his strong race at state, and he’s hungry for more. This season, he is eyeing a sub-5:45 mile and a sub-2:40 800, with longer-term goals of dipping under 5:30 and breaking 20 minutes in the 5k next year.

Even with his goals, accomplishments, and deep love for competition, the heart of Reid’s running journey comes from his personality. He is the teammate who sees the quiet or new runner standing alone, and goes to them first. He’s kind to every single athlete, regardless of age or ability, and makes sure everyone feels noticed, welcomed, and valued. The same qualities that fuel his progress as a runner;his discipline, consistency, curiosity, and genuine care, make him a leader within the team, not because he tries to be, but because it’s who he is.

Cross country is Reid’s favorite season, not just for the challenge of muddy courses and tough hills, but for the memories built during team bonding. His favorite experiences with EDT come from both years at Washburn; trips filled with racing, laughter, and the type of connection that makes the sport special. For him, the best part of racing has never been just the performance; it’s the shared experience before and after, the friendships, and the fun.

Reid understands something that many runners spend years trying to learn: PRs come from hard work and consistency, but running is at its best when you're also having fun. It’s advice he gives new runners often, and he models it in the way he trains and competes.

Outside of running, Reid loves playing and watching sports with his family. He’s got a soft spot for the Choccy Cows ChicknLegs design, fuels up with spaghetti and meat sauce before races, and celebrates with Chipotle or ice cream afterward. His pre-race hype is a unique mix: upbeat tracks like Shower by Becky G, Forever by Drake, and a strong lineup of Ellie Goulding songs woven throughout.

Reid represents what EDT strives to stand for; commitment, curiosity, inclusiveness, and joy in the process. His approach to training, his love for the sport, and the kindness he extends to every teammate are the same traits that will carry him to success far beyond running. We’re proud to have him as part of our story, and even more excited to watch the chapters ahead.