Sam Gorton
“We all have dreams. In order to make dreams come into reality, it takes an awful lot of determination, dedication, self-discipline and effort.” – Jesse Owens, Olympic Gold-Medalist
A junior at Bonners Ferry High School, Sam Gorton has already made his mark in cross country and track. He has varsity letters in both sports and has received many medals and ribbons for his accomplishments. Sam shared that he also enjoys running in local fun runs throughout the summer. But it is not just in athletics that he is successful; Sam has also been on the honor roll every semester.
When asked what his favorite thing about running is, he said it is the sense of competition: “The nerves that you feel on the starting line and that feeling of running the race knowing you gave it [your] all.” So when he suffered an injury to his tendon last year, it was extremely difficult to sit by and just watch. And while it was hard, that experience also taught him an important lesson.
“I’ve learned that no matter what the situation is or how bad the race or practice is, you have a chance to make it right and to get back up on your feet,” said Sam.
With just under two years left in his high school career, Sam said his most memorable moment to date was a race in Libby last season where he set his personal best in the 3-mile run. “I remember having so much fun and the competitive nature of that run."
After high school, Sam said he hopes to continue to run at the collegiate level. Although he has yet to decide where, he said he is looking at smaller schools such as Lewis and Clark State College. Until then, keep your eye out for this young athlete. He will continue to make his mark in Bonners Ferry when it comes to cross country and track. Keep up the good work, Sam!