The transition from high school to university athletics can be challenging for any first-year student-athlete. Brought to you in partnership with Outcast Upcycled Nutrition, we’re featuring first-year athletes from each of our seven varsity sports each month this season. This month we take a closer look at track and field athlete Braden Gray and his path to the AUS!

Gray is from Truro, Nova Scotia and is majoring in recreation management.

How long have you been running track?

I’ve run track for about seven years. I started when I was in grade six and I've stuck with it ever since.

Have you always run the same distances?

When I was younger, I did the shorter

sprints like the 100m/200m, but now I’m more of a middle distance guy with 300m and 400m.

What other sports did you play growing up?

I played hockey and football in high school for Cobequid Educational Centre, and before that I played a lot of soccer in the summer time.

Why do you love track?

I love track because of the personal improvement you see in yourself – it  makes you addicted to getting better and having the next breakthrough.

Who is somebody in sport you admired growing up and why?

I always admired Michael Jordan because of his work ethic and desperation to be the best. His mindset on approaching competition is something that is hard to replicate.

What is the most memorable moment in your career so far?

Probably when I broke the junior boys 100m record – that memory is one of my favorites in the sport.

What made you choose Dalhousie University?

I chose Dalhousie because it wasn't too far away from home, and I love the city of Halifax. The track team here is the best program in Atlantic Canada, so it was the perfect fit for me.

What are some differences you’ve noticed being a part of a DAL team compared to previous teams?

The Dal team is unique because you feel like you have a right to be there. When you’re surrounded by some of the best in the country at the university level, you feel as if you can aspire to be that, and you’re in the right program for those goals.

How have you enjoyed your time with the team so far?

I’ve loved the team aspect of our sprint group, we’re all very friendly and get along well. When we aren’t on the track, we hangout as regular friends.

How have you enjoyed classes/the university so far?

Because we’re online things have been different, but I’ve learned to enjoy online learning and the benefits that come with it.

What are some of your interests outside of sports?

I enjoy listening to music, seeing my friends, and eating out.

Fast Fact Questions

Favourite food? Bacon Cheeseburger

Favourite movie? The Pursuit of Happiness

Must have warm-up song or current favourite song? Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1

Favourite professional athlete or team? Miami Heat

What do you want to be when you grow up? A business manager

Any pre-meet superstitions/routines? Chewing bubble gum