In-Depth Interview with Clayton Mendez
February 20, 2018
Throughout the Whitney Young community, a name that has come up often when talking about the distance running program is Clayton Mendez ‘18. He is an All-American in the two mile and owns multiple school records. Recently, I had the chance to sit down with him and ask him about his life.
Q: What do you like most about running?
A: This sport is awesome in the fact that you can lose yourself in the moment. During practice, I’m able to forget about all my worries and just run with the team. Additionally, I have gotten the chance to bond with so many people and get involved in a community that is so far-stretched from high school and college to professionals.
Q: Did you think you would be running when you came to Whitney Young?
A: No, initially I wanted to play basketball here, but I joined the team the summer before freshman year, and it was one of the best decisions I have made. The experiences and memories that I have made are ones that I will never forget.
Q: Do you have any concerns as you finish your high school career?
A: I’ve had my ups and downs throughout high school, but seeing where I am now, I couldn’t ask for more. I love the experiences that I’ve had and will cherish them forever. Looking forward, I just want to finish it out on top since that’s the best way to go.
Q: I ask your coach, Billy Poole-Harris and this is what he had to say about you: “He’s a trailblazer. All the stuff he’s done in the past is huge. Nobody’s done what he has on the distance side. No kid in Chicago has ever represented the United States and reached the caliber that he’s at. Truly one of the best runners I’ve ever had.” What is your take on that and of your coach?
A: He’s been really supportive of me throughout these four years. We have had our arguments here and there, but I now see him as a friend more than a coach. I will always remember his nuggets and his pep talks. One of my favorite memories is him reading us “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” from Dr. Seuss. He’s always there when I need help and I will miss him when I go to college.
Q: How was your experience at FootLocker Nationals?
A: I went there for the first time and it was a truly awesome experience. Having the chance to run with the top guys in the national is a once in a lifetime experience. I am thankful for being able to qualify and live it up in San Diego for a couple of days.
Q: How has the team changed while you have been here? One of your teammates, Keaton Schwartz has said “Being on the same team as him has raised the bar and pushed us to be better. That’s the great part about having him.”
A: Yeah, the team culture is great. I love these guys. After a stressful day of school, coming out and running with these boys is a huge stress-reliever. Regardless of people’s grade levels, I’ve been able to connect with so many people over the love of running and our shared interest in winning.
Clayton Mendez will be attending Stanford University in the Fall.
2017 Foot Locker Boys Championship Race Results
