San Marcos’ Walker Odell
San Marcos’ boys cross country team reached the State Meet last year for the first time in school history. The only returner from that team, Walker Odell, is putting in the work this summer to finish off his high school career on a strong note after a pair of injuries slowed him down his sophomore and junior seasons.
“I decided I really needed to reshape my training and my dad has been helping me out with that,” Odell said. “Last week I ran 50 miles which is 15 miles more in a week than I’ve ever run in my entire life.
“So I’m putting in that mileage so I can be good in cross country and hopefully get recruited to run in college.”
Walker runs cross country in the fall and competes in the 800 and 1600 during Track & Field season in the spring.
“The thrill of winning an 800 is one of my favorite feelings in the world,” Odell said.
Odell was everywhere in June. The soon-to-be senior won the 15-19 age group at the State Street Mile early in the month. He participated in All-Comers meets at Westmont and placed second overall in the 5k at Nite Moves on June 25.
He’s been training two times a week with the Santa Barbara Running Group, led by Rusty Snow and Mike Swan.
“(Mike’s) really helped me avoid injury,” Odell said. “Those guys are really smart running-wise.”
Walker is in the AAPLE Academy at San Marcos, which is the Accelerated Academic Program for Leadership and Enrichment. He and friend Sam Goodman are also young entrepreneurs having begun a t-shirt company called Palm Tees. Among their jobs so far has been making shirts for the Vicki’s 3000 race in June. Odell plans on majoring in business in college.
Find past High School Runners of the Month HERE
The High School Runner of the Month award recognizes local prep runners that exemplify the term “Student-Athlete” by demonstrating leadership, passion and excellence in high school athletics. The annual campaign recognizes athletes from March through November.
Thanks to Santa Barbara Running Company for making this award possible and for supporting local athletes.
