KATIE SMITH-FT GIBSON
Fort Gibson senior Katie Smith is a girl on a mission to repeat this track season for the Tigers. She is the defending state champ in the 110-meter hurdles in which she qualified in both her freshman and sophomore years. She also runs on the Tigers 4X100 and 4X200 relay teams, the open 100 and the 300-meter hurdles as well as being a member of the Lady Tigers basketball team.
“Playing basketball runs in my family with my cousin being coach Jerry Walker and all. I was kind of “forced” into track around sixth grade when coaches saw my height and speed and talked me into trying hurdles. But after I started doing it, the more I liked it. My seventh-grade year was wiped out by the (Arkansas River) flood, so I didn’t get to run competitively until eighth grade. I think it was the Tahlequah meet my freshman year that I realized I was pretty good at hurdles and could do something with it. I prefer track over basketball because it’s more of a sport where you have to push yourself and I think it requires a stronger mindset than basketball,” said Katie. “I like the pressure of having it on yourself like the pressure of going to state as a freshman.”
Katie cites her coaches as being role models for her but also a special person who was always there for her.
“My grandma who passed away last year was very special in that regard,” said Smith with some emotion in her voice. “I’d go to her after every meet and share my joys or sorrows.”
With a gold medal already in hand, what’s the motivation for her to continue competing?
“It’s knowing that I have people coming after me that want to take the title away from me that keeps me going this year,” said Katie.
As a senior leader, Katie herself serves as a role model for younger runners.
“I think I’m a role model for the younger kids because I was the first track runner to win at state from Fort Gibson and as a role model, I know I need to set a good example,” said Smith who will continue her track career next year at Oral Roberts University.
