Photo by Sophia Rogers
By Angela Brunk
Derby High School senior Rowan Ake is approaching his final cross country season with clear goals and unwavering determination. Ake’s primary focus is to push himself to his limits in every race and ensure that he leaves everything on the course. His ultimate goal is to qualify for the state meet for the first time in his career and help put his team in the best possible position to qualify as well.
As a senior, Ake is embracing his new role as a team leader, guiding younger runners and setting an example through his dedication and work ethic. Ake is also looking forward to seeing how his hard work has paid off. Over the offseason, Derby welcomed a new coach, which meant adjusting to a new training philosophy. Ake took the challenge head-on, increasing his training volume to 50–60 miles per week, sometimes running twice a day.
Ake’s commitment to cross country has already been shown. Last season, Ake helped Derby finish second at league, a remarkable accomplishment for a team often seen as underdogs. He also cut a minute and a half off his 5K time and achieved a personal milestone by breaking the five-minute barrier in the mile during track season. Both goals and accomplishments Ake is proud of.
Beyond athletics, Ake maintains a busy schedule. He runs track, plays the viola, and serves as treasurer of the National Honor Society. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue an aerospace engineering degree at the University of Kansas. However, Ake is open to the possibility of continuing his running career at a college in Kansas.
With his drive, discipline, and leadership, Rowan Ake is ready to make his senior season one to remember.
