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<strong>Colorado's Class of 2014 makes their decisions...</strong></p>
Darby Gilfillan has been setting new standards for GW cross country and track distance on a regular basis the last three or four seasons. Contributed photo.
Darby Gilfillan's best marks
800 meters - 2:18.45
1600 meters - 4:58.97
1600 meters - 4:59.03 (at altitude)
3200 meters - 10:58.77 (at altitude)
5K cross country - 18:11.75 (at altitude)
Darby, tell us a little about how the decision fell to Colorado State...
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit schools around the country; they were all great, and I learned a lot. I found that I felt most comfortable at Colorado State University. I could see myself learning, training, and competing there for the next four years. The coaching staff is incredibly knowledgable and supportive. I know some of the girls on the team, and they would be incredible teammates. I was also excited to have the chance to stay close to home and family, particularly being able to watch my little brother and sister grow up for the next four years. I'm thrilled to become part of the CSU program, and believe I can progress and contribute there.
What do you plan to study at CSU?
I plan to double major in biology and Spanish. I'm interested in either genetic counseling or hematology.
I can't see you not doing both in college, but which do you prefer--track or cross country?
That's a tough one! I will be competing in cross country and track for CSU, and even though I've always had a soft spot for indoor track, since it's such a short but fun season, I love them all. If asked this question in middle school, I would have definitely said cross country, but I've come to really appreciate track throughout high school. I enjoy the unique excitement and challenges of both and can't wait to experience them at the college level.
Have you gotten any indication from the coaches at CSU what event they think you might be starting out with at CSU?
We haven't decided what my events will be yet. I like racing in anything from the 800 to 5K, and 6K for cross country in college, so it will be a fun process deciding which events I will get to represent CSU in. I don't think the 10K on the track will be on the menu though...haha!
Can you pick a highlight of your high school career so far?
Medaling last year in the 1600 after qualifying for State for the first time was one of my biggest highlights! Getting my altitude 3200 under 11:00 was also exciting, as was racing well in big meets. Overall, representing George Washington and competing with such fantastic runners, whom I've long admired, is a tough experience to beat.
Are there any big goals remaining on the table for your final season for high school sports?
Colorado is a really talented distance state, so improving every year is always my primary goal. I want to run PR's in the 800, 1600 and 3200, and to represent George Washington to the best of my ability throughout the season and at State again.
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When you think of George Washington High School, it's easy to focus on sprints, jumps, hurdles, and relays, but Darby Gilffillan has given the Patriots a very strong presence in the distance events as well. It isn't that much of a reach to think of GW as a team state title contender this spring. And, in that case, Gilfillan's contributions could easily end up being critical. So, make sure you're keeping an eye out for the whole picture each time GW takes the track this spring.
