Allen Says There Are ‘Fireworks’ Ahead for EJ Cross Country

By Jeff Steers
JTV Sports

(October 23, 2022 8:15 AM) For someone who was running in the low 19s a year ago, Michael Allen of East Jackson says he could possibly be a state champion in Division 4 in the near future.

If he continues to improve, it may not be so farfetched.

Allen finished fourth at the Cascades Conference finals at Ella Sharp Park on Wednesday earning first-team all-conference honors with a time of 17 minutes, 2 seconds.

He helped lead the Trojans to a third-place finish in the boys’ conference final standings.

It is a far cry from where the Trojans normally place in the conference.

“We are inspired by the music of Katy Perry and Ariana Grande before the meets,” Allen said. “Sports helps you to build a lot of friendships.”

Allen has been running cross country since seventh grade. His times were in the 20s his freshman season, he ran a 19:13 at last year’s conference final, and has a best time of 16:54 this year. 

“I have been sticking to my training recently,” Allen said of his success in 2022. 

Allen said he runs an average of 10 miles per day during the summer. The extra endurance factor has helped the junior rise near the top in the area.

“This team could potentially win the Division 4 title,” Allen said. “I am looking to run under 16 minutes.”

Next year Allen is thinking big with goals of winning the Cascades Conference, regionals, and possible the D-4 state titles. 

“Cross country is a very competitive sport,” Allen said. “You have to run for long periods of time (to improve).”

Allen also plays basketball and runs track and field at EJHS.