Tampa Bay Times' all-Tampa Bay boys track team
Source/Author: Scott Purks, Times Correspondent
June 23, 2016
Pinellas Athlete of the Year: Luke Peterson, Shorecrest Class of 2016
Why we picked him: Peterson finished off his high school career with individual victories at the Class A state meet in the 800 meters (1:56.76) and the 1,600 (4:31.06). Peterson also helped his 4x800 relay to a state-title victory in 8:20.11. At the FSU Relays in March, he ran a personal-best 4:19.07 in the 1,600 to place third.
Most impressive accomplishment: Peterson said he most proud of his final high school performance — at the state meet a few weeks ago. He was particularly pleased with helping his 4x800 teammates capture gold after coming out of the slow heat. "I was hoping we could get at least a third-place finish from the slow heat," Peterson said. The 800, 1,600 and 4x800 relay victories were the first in Shorecrest track history.
Did you know? As a seventh grader running for Shorecrest in a district meet at Taylor Park, Peterson was suddenly — completely and totally out of the blue — run over by a stray bike rider. The bicyclist drove straight through a pack of runners and jabbed her handlebar into Peterson's stomach. After offering to help her up, while she yelled at him, he continued running and finished.
What's next: Peterson accepted a recruited walk-on spot at the University of North Carolina, where he will run in the fall.
Full story: http://www.tampabay.com/sports/tranckandfieldpreps/tampa-bay-times-all-tampa-bay-boys-track-teams/2280054
Photo by Leslie Ellen Photography
Full story: http://www.tampabay.com/sports/tranckandfieldpreps/tampa-bay-times-all-tampa-bay-boys-track-teams/2280054
Photo by Leslie Ellen Photography
