Conor Gross and Ryan Kugler have left their marks over every type of distance race, both XC in the fall and on the track in spring. Each has also won District and Metro Gold medals throughout their storied careers. With the Class A State Meet this week (Wed/Thurs) at Burke Stadium, we reached out to the guys to check in before they run their final times as Warriors. See some bits below from our conversations on the eve of the State Meet.
Catch up with Conor Gross:
-It’s been a tricky Spring season with weather, and you’ve been working through a leg strain- how are you feeling going into the 1600 at State this week?
“After a rough stretch in the winter and early season, I’m finally feel like myself again and ready to show off my fitness at the State Meet!”
-The State Meet will be loaded with talented milers. You’re coming off winning both the Metro and District meets. Do you feel like your best time (sub 4:15) is in the cards at Burke Thursday?
“I definitely think a PR is in the books, as long as the race doesn’t go out slow due to championship race tactics. At the end of the day, the State Meet measures points off of placement and doesn’t award individual PR’s, but obviously I would hope for a chance to set a lifetime best on the biggest stage for high school.”
-Your times are all over the records at Westside and around the area. As you reflect, any specific races that are especially memorable over your career?
“There definitely are a few races that will always stick with me. My school record 5k race, senior year State XC, and both the 1600 and 3200 at the State Meet for track last year. I’m hoping to add to that list with the 1600 this year!”
-The Class of 2025 has built the foundation for a strong distance program. Lots of success from you guys. What are you going to miss most about these other seniors after it’s all wrapped up?
“Over the past few years, this group of guys that have graduated along with me have developed from teammates into what feels like family. It would be much too long of a quote to talk about each and every one of them, but I will miss all of their personalities and the way they pushed me to be not only the best runner I could be but also the best teammate and supporter for them and the rest of the team.”
-How have the coaches impacted your performance?
“For the coaches, especially XC/Distance coaches, I’d like to give a huge shout to them. The work that they put into me and many others to develop love for the gift of running and a healthy lifestyle has set me and many of those others up for a prosperous future.”
-Any advice or wisdom for the younger runners in the program?
“My advice to young runners joining the program is to be consistent and keep a strong and healthy mindset. Consistency goes beyond just running. There are many factors, like sleep, nutrition, and recovery that will either boost or impede your ability to improve. Having a healthy mindset towards the sport will make it all feel easier. No fancy training plan or technology can make you outperform owning your consistency and mindset.”
-What’s next? What campus will you be on next year?
“I will be attending Creighton University where I will be running for both the cross country and track teams!”
Catch up with Ryan Kugler:
-It’s been a choppy season with the weather and lots of wind, how is your body feeling going into the State Meet?
“My body feels great. Tapering is always a nice way to prepare for the State Meet.”
-At Metro and District, you won the 3200 easily and were able to coast in for the W’s. The field at State will be a fast crew. It appears you are in prime form and ready to roll Wednesday at Burke. Do you feel breaking 9:20 is in the cards?
“I’m not too worried about time at State. I know I’m capable of breaking 9:20, but if the field goes out slow it may not happen. I’m focused on placing high. ”
-Coming back Thursday and running the 1600 24 hours later is something you’ve been able to handle. Do you receive any type of therapy in between races when they are back-to-back days?
“I usually do my own therapies. Massage gun, fuel up, ice bath, rest and roll out. ”
-Your times are all over the records at Westside and around the area. As you look back, any specific races that are memorable from your career?
“My Metro Championships are quite memorable and I’m hoping that these two State races are the most memorable track ones. ”
-The Class of 2025 has built the foundation for a strong distance program. Lots of success from you guys. What are you going to miss most about these other seniors after it’s all wrapped up?
“I am going to miss the comraderies we held on the team. It’s such a fun group and I love that running brought us together. I’m going to miss all of it!”
-How have the Program and Coaches Impacted You?
“Running has taught me a lot, and I can’t believe it’s over. I think I’ll feel like I’m losing a part of myself. Gosnell has been a huge part of my experience at Westside and I’m glad she stuck around long enough to graduate with the class of 2025..”
-Any advice or wisdom for the younger runners in the program?
“Just take it day by day, and don’t compare yourself to other people.”
-What’s next? What campus will you be on next year?
“I will be attending University of Michigan, where I think I will train myself to compete in half and full marathons competitively.”
The running events (5-21/22) are set to start at 1:30 both days.
