Jun 08, 2021

Dawson Gunn

From a top ten state championship end his cross country season, to now being one of the many 5A contenders in the distance events still only just a junior. Today we find out more about Dawson's motivations, pre-race snacks and even the best advice he has ever received in our Getting to Know New Mexico Athletes Series.

Weekend Recap: New Mexico June 3 - 5

2021 New Mexico Weekly Track and Field Rankings

Getting To Know New Mexico Athletes

When did you first start competing in track and field, and do you recall any of your childhood competitions?

I started competing my 8th-grade year for Rio Rancho high school I went to about half of the varsity meets and I remember first breaking 11 in the 2 mile I was in disbelief that people could run any faster.

Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?

I realized I started competing at a high level my freshman year of track in the districts 2 mile where I was just bumped out of state qualifying and got 3rd place.

What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?

Some bumps in the road when it comes to training for separate events is making sure I have my race strategies down for each of my races because I tend to do better if I race with a plan.

How did COVID impact your training as you prepared for the season?

Though COVID limited my racing it allowed me to train consistently over a long period of time with out worry's of racing or seasons approaching.

If you had to pick: Track and Field or Cross Country, and why?

I would pick track because I love having multiple races a day so I can use my endurance and my speed throughout the day also I enjoy the team bonding that track has.

How is the college recruiting process going, and what schools are you looking at?

Currently, I have only had small talks with some coaches from colleges. At the moment I have been looking at D1 schools in Texas and Colorado but I haven't dived too deep into college yet.

Where are you going to college? If you have already committed, what made you choose them?

Hopefully somewhere with some good pizza in a sucker for a good margarita pizza

Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?

I wish I was good at high jump that event looks so fun. I like the idea of jumping onto a big pillow.

What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?

I like to play basketball at parks with friends and listening to music (preferably alternate R&B or hip hop)

Who is your role model, and why?

Running wise my role models were my brother and seniors on the team that graduated when I was younger like Daniel beam and Michael Marchelli they definitely showed me self-discipline and love for the sport And my main role models are probably those lizards who lay on warm rocks all day.

Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!

Some things on my bucket list are: eat a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia, hear clario in concert, and get swarmed by a bunch of puppies when I'm laying down

What is the best advice you have received?

"If you focus on a single leaf you'll miss the tree and if you focus on a single tree you'll miss the forest"

What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?

I like to eat eggs and toast before morning races and a turkey sandwich before after afternoon races and also I like to listen to pretty girl by clario before races to wake me up.

If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?

I would probably play men's volleyball even though my coach doesn't believe I could since I don't have a vertical but I guess we'll never know.