2025 Chestatee XC Senior Spotlight: Jonathan Smith

 2025 Chestatee XC Senior Spotlight:
Jonathan Smith

Senior Spotlight is our way of recognizing our War Eagle Seniors who have put in the hard work 
of representing the maroon and black in Cross Country.  If you are a senior and would like to
be recognized, please email ChestateeXC@gmail.com and we will provide a link to get your information.

What is your PR in XC so far?
18:53 ran two years ago, 19:30 this year 

What are your college plans, if you have them figured out?

Georgia State maybe I don’t know

What's your most memorable race or race you're most proud of?

Airport race two years ago when I beat my mentor Nate Ibarra

What is your favorite meet in cross country season and why?

Unicoi or North Oconee because the drive is interesting

What has been your biggest challenge in high school or what has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?

Not turning my work in and relationships.

What is your daily/weekly mileage like?

25-35 weekly if you count running at practice and on my own.

What do you think is the biggest part of training that has helped you achieve success?

People around me who bring me up and learning how to stand straight up when I run.

What is your all time favorite workout?

The Meadow...because it feels fast

What is your least favorite or hardest workout?

Tennis courts...because I have to go all the way up the hill.

Who do you look up to most in your event?
Nate Ibarra was my mentor

What is your favorite pre-race meal?
I don’t have a set pre-race meal to be honest

Who do you have to thank for your success?

Myself, my God, and my friends and family 

What gets you pumped up for a workout or race?

Music and the desire to compete

What will you miss the most about high school?

The days I was absent and my friends

What advice would you give your younger self?
Pay more attention and stop letting prideful people get ahead of you 

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