Upper St. Clair Sawyer Weinmann Making A Name For Himself

Sep 21, 2022

Upper St. Clair junior Sawyer Weinmann is one of WPIAL's up-and-coming runners to watch this postseason. Weinmann placed in the top ten in two of cross country's biggest meets this season, placing 5th at the Marty Uher invitational and 8th at the Red White and Blue Invitational with a personal best of 16:05. But Sawyer has more to prove this season.

"I could have pushed myself harder the last mile at Red, White, and Blue, and I just need to push and get out of my comfort zone more."

Running has been in Sawyer's blood since he was eight years old. His father has played a massive role in getting him to where he is today in his running career. "I have been running for a long time, and my dad is a former runner for Upper St. Clair. When I was about eight years old, my dad said let's give running a try at a local club," explained Sawyer. Sawyer's mother has also played an important role this season, motivating him in each race to do better "She is constantly there to help me prepare for my races, and she always brings her signature cowbell to ring at my races."

Upper St. Clair Head Coach Doug Petrick believes Sawyer brings something to the program at Upper St. Clair. "Every athlete that has cycled through our program is unique. Sawyer is always upbeat and loves racing. He's fearless in competition and has helped push our team culture forward."

With the WPIAL Cross Country Championship at the end of October, Sawyer would like to improve on his 17th place from the 2021 season. "I can run a great time, but I would like to beat people who had a better time than me last go-around at Cal U," said Sawyer. Coach Petrick believes Sawyer can accomplish any goal in front of him this year as he added; "Sawyer has emerged as a leader, and as a student of the sport, he trusts the training and does all the little things well."

Athlete Profile

Cross Country Personal Record- 16:05 (Red, White, and Blue)

2021 PIAA Cross Country State Qualifier

2021 17th place XC WPIAL

2021 8th place XC Mingo Classic

2022 WPIAL Track & Field 5th 1600 meter run (4:26.31) & 8th place 3200 meter run (9:39.82)

Athlete Q&A with Sawyer Weinmann

Favorite Cross Country Course?

Mingo

Favorite Cross Country Quote

¨To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift." -Steve Prefontaine

What drives you to get up in the morning and train every day?

I first remind myself of the goals I have agreed to accomplish with running. Then if I start lacking the motivation to run and chase those goals, I ask myself, ¨ Why do I not want to run at this moment?¨. Then, my mind's excuses usually get me angry enough to run.

What brand of running shoes do you prefer?

Nike all the way. You can't go wrong with the goddess of victory; also, I respect Bill Bowerman and his legacy.