CRANFORD MALE ATHLETE OF THE MONTH

David Bartley, varsity cross country

“David has been an important contributor to the varsity cross country, and track and field teams since his freshman year. He shows tremendous leadership and sets a positive example for the younger athletes and the rest of the team.”
— Coach John Schiano

What is your favorite part of running cross country?
“It’s a sport where everyone can have a fresh start and everyone can get good at it only if they dedicate themselves to the sport.”

In what way has the sport benefited you?
“I have made a lot of new friends and have done very well and put a lot of effort into the sport and ran a very good time.”

What is your biggest challenge when competing?
“The workouts during practice, because it requires a lot of mental toughness and, if you can get through the workouts and meet the times, you will get really good at the sport.”

How do you get ready for a cross country race?
“I usually eat a snack about two hours before my race start, along with warming up an hour before by going on a small run and then stretching.”

What’s your favorite memory of this season?
“Hitting my PR at a Greystone with a time of 17:03 in a 5K.”

Who are your favorite professional athletes?
“Mo Farah, because he has a lot of mental toughness to run those races.”

What is your favorite subject in school?
“Physics, because we do a lot of fun labs and I like the topic as well.”

What other hobbies do you have?
“I like driving, video games and hanging out with friends and family.”

What are your plans after high school?
“To major in mechanical engineering or computer science.”