Just because Hobart senior Josh Branam got a late start in track doesn’t mean he’s been any less successful at it. The Bearcat relay star is a natural on the track. 

“I had a little bit later of a start with track,” Branam said. “I started my sophomore year after a coach had told me they thought I’d be perfect for it. So, I started out running on 4x800m and 4x400m relay teams and qualified for state in both. I have qualified for state in all four of my events this year and I am very excited for the state meet, but I fell in love with track and field whenever I started running the open 400m. To me there was nothing better than that full lap of determination you need to compete in an open 400m. It has been an exciting race to me ever since I first stepped on the track to run my first one. I love how it tests your ability and mental strength.”

As a senior, Branam recognizes that he is a role model for younger students both on the track and off, and he said that’s something he’s okay with.

“I really like being in a leadership role,” he said. “I love the opportunity to be able to influence the younger athletes, and they’re always watching. I love that I have had the chance to be in that position to help someone learn and grow as an athlete, whether it’s showing them how to perform a certain drill, building them up as an athlete through encouragement, or showing them how to be a team player.”

After high school, Branam said he’s going to run track at Oklahoma Christian University in Edmond and pursue a degree in nursing. In his free time, he said he’s up for anything outdoors-related.