Foster named top Aggie

Katrina Cartwright

Utah Statesman: When did you start running and why?

Dwayne Foster: When I was 7. My mom was a track athlete also, so I followed in her footsteps. This was in Jamaica.

US: What goes through your mind at the starting line?

DF: At the starting line, I’m a brick wall – focused and ready to run. I have a plan in mind to make sure it’s a good race. I do what I always do in practice, which is drive when I come up. I stay relaxed, and when I finish, I tighten it up.

US: What did you think after your race last weekend when you broke the school record for the 100-meter dash?

DF: I wasn’t surprised. I ran pretty well in practice that same week and was well-prepared. On the other hand, there’s always room for improvement, and to do that I need to stay healthy and do what’s right.

US: What are your goals for the rest of the season?

DF: I plan on running at least a 10.0 or a 9.9 and going to nationals, which is my main goal. Last week was hand-timed because the regular timer was broken, so my time doesn’t count as qualifying, so that’s sad. Qualifying is 10.16.

US: Why do you like the 100 best?

DF: It’s because my mom was a sprinter. I’m basically just like her. I’m the only other sprinter in my family.

US: How did you end up at Utah State and what do you think of it?

DF: I moved from Jamaica to Florida in 1995. I finished high school in Florida and went to a junior college in Kansas. Then I transferred here because of the scholarship. This is my second year here. The team is fun. It’s really strong now and I hope we finish strong and not lose it like last year. As far as coaches go, we have exceptional coaches.

US: What don’t you like about being here?

DF: I don’t like the weather. That’s definitely one of my dislikes. I’d rather practice outside because I don’t feel as confident when I practice inside. Because of the weather, I have to train indoors a lot.

US: What hobbies/interests do you have outside of track?

DF: I play some tennis and basketball. I like shooting my paintball gun. I also play soccer.

US: Are you looking forward to competing at home this weekend?

DF: Yes. I have some friends from around here that are coming to watch me compete. I hope the weather is good. I want to compete well, but it all depends on the weather.

US: What are your plans after you graduate?

DF: I’m a BIS major and Office Systems Management. I plan to keep on running, move back to Florida and get me a good job.