Today, we salute Godwin Kabanda of Northeast.
Kabanda closed out a strong high school career. He closed out his PIAA career with a state title in the 300 meter hurdles. In the state final, the senior clocked a big PR of 37.29 to capture gold. He took 24th in the 400 meter hurdles in a PR of 54.78.
He swept the hurdles at the District 12 Championships this spring, winning the 300 hurdles and the 110 meter hurdles in a PR of 14.58.
Kabanda reflected on his career for PennTrackXC.
---------------
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race was pub relays running with my brothers Amir Shields, Valcour Marcellus, Calvin Williams and TyHeem Bailey. I went home with triple gold medals in the 110 meter hurdles, 4x4 and 4x8 having to do it the CongoWay in front of my hood.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I faced my Biggest competition 2018 District 12 Championship against Lance Kromah, Luke Hardy, and William Williams and winning that race meant so much to me and It will always be dear to me.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
The one that stands out the most is winning a state medal in the 300 meter hurdles and becoming all-state first team, four years ago running 44 seconds I would've never thought about accomplishing all this. I been practicing, praying and working a lot, and I just wanna thank God for that.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
I probably would've worked harder and spent more time like I did junior and senior year. My freshman and sophomore year I took it more like a club instead of something serious. I probably would've educated myself about it more also. Didn't know what states was till the end of sophomore year and nationals till the end of junior year.lol
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Distractions. I mastered the skill of focus my senior year. It took me 4 years, but I did it and I gotta give myself a pat on the back for that one.
What will you miss the most?
The atmosphere track is a sport where almost everyone gets along even if you lose, you're still having a good time. The people around you and the people watching are always friendly and always willing to help. #D12
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Advice for the young athletes is that no matter where you are, if your running a 2:15 in the 800m or a 62 in the 400m never give up always work hard and stay focus on what's the goal and keep praying.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
Coach Nettie came my junior year and changed the game for me big time. Always pushing for me to strive further than what I already think is good. She pushed me to work harder than anyone. My other coach, Coach E pushes me not only as a track athlete but as a man because there's more to track than running and he taught me that. Last is Coach Mo, the guy who taught me hurdles and made sure I do the best for me. Even though he would come at us hard for my mistakes, I needed that.
What are your post-high school plans?
I don't know right now but imma leave it to God because he knows what's best for me.
Any shoutouts?
I wanna shoutout my Family first, coaches Coach E, Coach Nettie, Coach Mo and Coach Ford I would like to shoutout also my church, teammates, D12 and most importantly THE CONGO!!!!!!!!!
