cherry sets school mile record, but its his leadership that sets him apart

By: Justin Zulu

Howard County Executive Calvin Ball presents senior Tim Cherry an award of congratulations. Ball said: "Our Gladiators continue to persevere, make positive strides, and are determined to meet their goals. One such Gladiator was Tim Cherry..."

Tim Cherry, right, poses with his second-place medal after running a school record time 4:12.62 at the New Balance Indoor National Meet in New York on March 12.

​For Tim Cherry it must have been something out of a dream. The senior, who finished the winter high school season as the 800 meter and 1600 meter state champion, most recently ran a school record mile time of 4:12:62 at the New Balance Indoor Nationals Championship Meet on March 12. 

Cherry’s time breaks a mark set 11 years ago, according to coach Philip Johnson.

It’s a dream that Cherry has been running toward since the indoor track season of his freshman year, but really materialized this year at the start of the cross country season.
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But state championships and records aside, it’s Cherry’s attitude toward the sport and his teammates that stand out most. 

In a season filled with multiple pauses due to COVID-19, Cherry stepped up for his team, serving as a mentor to underclassmen and first-year runners. 

“I just try to stay positive and encourage everyone to do their best and be a role model for them and show them what it takes to be at the top,” said an enthusiastic Cherry. “I try to keep everyone motivated … and pass down all my knowledge about mid distance running and races.” 

One of the many factors that contribute to Cherry’s success is his determination and preparation, requisites that should serve him well in the outdoor season and next year where he plans to run Track and Field at Michigan State University. 

“This season I was one of the top dogs coming in, so it is a lot more serious than before, but I watch literally everything I do and I make sure it doesn’t affect me too much,” Cherry said. “I was way more prepared than any other season.”

The season was filled with change, and runners were presented with two options: give in to pressure and unfamiliarity, or adapt to new conditions and keep moving. Cherry chose the latter. 

He knew that he needed to consider the important keys to his success in order to adapt to the continuously changing workouts due to COVID-19, including the time he spent in the weight room and being mindful of his diet. 

Cherry also noted a “consistent work ethic” contributed most to his success this season. 

It appears that whenever Cherry puts his mind to something, success has always been imminent. He is an important pillar of the Glenelg community and represents the mindset a star athlete should have.

A humble Cherry did not hesitate to hide his appreciation for his coaches and fellow runners: “I just want to thank my teammates, coaches, and everyone else who has helped me along the way. I would not have been able to accomplish the things I have without their help. They really have always continued to motivate me and keep me grounded and I appreciate it.”

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