Gracen works hard when it comes to running. Yet there is one thing she is even more passionate about: loudly proclaiming Jesus on the track.
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Gracen loves that cross country and track constantly remind her who she is. She loves chasing the “impossible” goals. Mostly, she realizes that more than medals, she loves the person running has made her become. It helps her on, and off the field. And it has taught her that success is simply refusing to stop when life gets hard, because she has a God who has equipped her with strength to finish her race with excellence.
On and off the field Gracen has a set of people that she considers family. Yet her biggest inspiration is her dad and brother. Her brother was a great runner in his youth, and now Gracen is determined to carry on the legacy. Her dad is her coach and continues to push her every single day reminding her that she is more than capable to do hard things. And that she has a family who loves her regardless of her sport performance.
One moment in Gracen’s running journey that made me the proudest was her 8th Grade season championship. She was asked to do some events that she had never done, and placed 1st in all of them because she refused to stay content with being incapable. I was also very proud of Gracen for boldly stepping up and praying over 300 kids at a track meet. She says that it is by God’s grace she can run. And she wants others to experience that too. However, at the end of the day- I am always proud of her.
Vote for Gracen to become the Youth Athlete of the Year while supporting a great cause! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation supporting the Why Not You Foundation.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
