Bradley Franklin, from Thompson High School, is this week's Athlete of the Week! He is on a tear to open up the season. First stop of the season was the Five Team Battle Royale with wins in the 80m hurdles and the 200m hurdles. Last Friday at the Husky March Classic he ran 10.92 in the 100m and 13.69 in the 110m hurdles, both lifetime personal bests. We caught up with him about Friday's performance.
Tell me about last Friday's meet. Great start to the season with two personal bests!
My PRs last week were just a result of me getting stronger over the summer and indoor season. My 110m was, in my opinion, not the best I can do, for many factors like the cold/wet weather and the headwind, as well as not completely gassing out in order to stay healthy for New Balance this weekend. The 100 is a similar story.
You're heading to New Balance for the chance to compete for a national title. What does the possibility of being a national champion mean to you?
Being national champ means a lot to me, and I'm going to try my hardest to shoot for World Champ for pre-collegiate level. Honestly I didn't think I'd make it this far at all.
What are some specifics to hurdling you've been working on?
Mainly my trail leg, as well as my actual foot speed in between the hurdles. The majority of the distance I gain throughout a race is in between the hurdles, so I try to capitalize on it as much as possible.
Tell me about your commitment to Samford. Why there? How will they help you grow in your career?
When I committed to Samford, it was for several factors. Along with the location being convenient, being close to home, it had a major that was essentially perfect for me ( 3D animation and game design). The track team has many All American and World Class athletes, and the coach has aspirations to get me there as well. Their top hurdler, Titus Moore, is also leaving this season I believe, so I'll be sort of a main focus for hurdles.
What got you started into running?
I'd say my father is the biggest contributor to my career in running.
What is your go-to cheat meal?
Buffalo wings. No questions
Any crazy time goals for Outdoor?
My goal for Outdoor is 13.2x. Anything to edge out Marlon Humphrey.
Catch Bradley in action for the 60m Hurdles at the New Balance Indoor Nationals with preliminaries on Saturday and the semifinals and finals on Sunday.