Liberty Christian junior James Guinn is the August Athlete of the Month sponsored by America's Heartland Packing.
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Name: James Guinn
School: Liberty Christian Academy
Grade: Junior
Favorite athlete/team: Francis Edward Zykan IV
Pregame music: ‘EPIC-The Musical’ – Jorge Rivera-Herrans
Favorite celebration after winning a match or game: Typically after placing in a race, I go out with my family for ice cream.
When did you start your sport? Freshman year
What made you join your high school team? During my two years of middle school football, I came to realize I was faster than most individuals and, by freshman year, I found that running was my thing.
Did you play any other sports growing up? Yes, growing up, I was desperate to find a sport I could find interest in, so I tried soccer, baseball, football, and, as recommended by a friend, wrestling.
Do you have a certain athlete you aspire to be like or model your game after? Since my freshman track season, I’ve aspired to beat the record holder of all of Wright City’s distance events (mile, two mile, five kilometer) Larry Paul.
What is your favorite memory of your time in school? The chance I’ve had to come to LCA and, while new, the people I’ve met in recent weeks.
What’s the best advice you’ve heard? “Your body is capable of more than your mind will allow you to believe.” – Ryan Iteyel
How has your sport helped shape you as a person? It gave me the ability (to have) self-discipline that I would never have had before.
Do you have a favorite college or professional team? No, cross country and track are more of a ‘do’ sport than a ‘watch’ sport.
Do you have a teammate or coach that has been influential throughout your career? Over the last three years, I have had three different coaches and experiencing each of their styles has helped greatly in their own ways.
Do you have a memorable win or accomplishment? The 2025 St. Dominic track meet. This was my first sub-12-minute, two-mile run.
What is one piece of advice you would give to underclassmen? Forget the hurt. When you get tired in a race, half of that is your brain telling you that you don’t want to run. Don’t let it.
Do you have any pregame superstitions or a pregame routine? As much disbelief as I’ve been given, eating something pre-race helps me run.
Do you want to play in college? Yes, I would like to continue to compete to further better myself.
