My name is Julian Baker. I am in the class of 2024 running cross country and track at Mt. Zion High School in Illinois. My current best times are 14:59 in cross country 3 mile, 9:26 in the 3200, and 4:20 for the 1600. I ended my junior cross country season by placing 3rd in the IHSA 2A state meet. I finished 8th in the 2022 IHSA track state finals. My goals are to finish my junior season with 4:14 in the 1600 and 9:20 for the 3200. This upcoming cross country season my goal is to break 14:20. WIth the work I have put in and the time I have already been able to cut off since the start of my high school running career I have no doubt that these goals are achievable.

Throughout my life, sports have been more important than anything to me. I spent most of my younger years playing baseball and basketball. Until my 8th grade year I had no clue I’d end up being a runner; however, once I decided to pursue my running career, I’ve never had any doubts that I chose the right sport for me. Since 8th grade, running in college has been a dream of mine. Currently I have a GPA of 3.28 but have no doubt it will be up to 3.40 by the end of Junior year due to the hard work I’ve been putting into my weighted and advanced classes.

Going into the end of my junior year and approaching my senior season, I am extremely excited and motivated to get myself on the highest level of competition possible in order to prepare myself for the high level of competition college running will provide. For more information, please email me at julianbaker2024@gmail.com.