Trace Cook runs cross country for the Lawton Wolverines. He enjoys running and he knows that in order for him to be his best when competition day comes, it is imperative that he puts in the required amount of work.

“There is a lot that goes into reaching my full potential,” he said. “You have to put in a lot of hard work and be consistent with it. I also push myself to keep improving.”

There are times when the work can be tough and you feel like giving up. But Trace says that those are the times to stay focused.

“I keep myself motivated by seeing me and my team getting better,” he said. “That helps me stay on course and get done what needs to be done. It is also great when you can see your hard work pay off. The highlight moment of my career was when I ran a 5:40 mile. It was a great feeling.”

As a senior at Lawton, Cook has had people in his life that have been supportive and influential. He has two people that have made the biggest impact.

“My biggest role model would have to be my sister,” he said. “She is the best person that I know and I appreciate her. Another would be Ms. Garze because she made science fun and helped me to become interested in it.”

Alan Prater is the cross country coach at Lawton High School and has seen firsthand the results of the hard work that Cook has put in.

“Trace is a four year runner and has excelled his senior year,” he said. “He has improved his times each and every year, with hopes of making state this year.”

Anytime that he steps up to the line to start a race, Cook knows that he is not just there for himself.

“Representing my school gives me pride to be a Wolverine,” he said. “I feel like a lot of people don’t expect a lot from us, so going out and doing my best is very important to me.”