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Wyatt Hartman Maplewood distance runner
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Track
Although he was a state runner-up, school and state record holder in the 1600-meter run, Wyatt Hartman’s biggest junior year accomplishment came in the fall.
The Maplewood standout placed 12th at the state cross country meet, while running the fifth-fastest time in program history.
“I like the speed stuff in track and that’s what I did better at,” Hartman said. “I thought of cross country as a thing to keep me in shape. That was a big step for me thinking I can be a cross country and a distance guy. Getting on the podium — that was a really big deal for me.”
Since fourth grade field days, Hartman has been a runner of any distance. He followed in the literal footsteps of older siblings, especially sister Alyssa.
“She was never the most talented runner, but she had a great work ethic,” Hartman said. “She always told me, ‘You have a lot of talent. Make sure you don’t waste it.’ I got my work ethic from her.
“How much you put into it is how you’re going to get out of it. I just love the side by side. Who’s got more guts? There’s an adrenaline rush every time you’re out. Not everyone can run three miles or even a mile. It’s a challenge just to push yourself and I love challenges and pushing my body to the limit.”
It really was a tutorial into everyday life as a Maplewood Rocket. Hartman takes pride in running for a program with such history and tradition.
“People around the state do know Maplewood,” he said. “It’s a great level to live up to.”
He anticipates running in college and studying mechanical engineering.