HILEVEL PROFILE: TODD IACOVELLI

"I want to find out if I can run with the best," states the voice of Todd Iacovelli as he explains his decision to attend the University of Michigan. Todd is a Kailua Boy, a Punahou Graduate, a good student and a free-spirit who loves to run.

As a substitute for "hoops", Todd started running in the ninth grade, and he quickly became a track hero. In a particular ILH Meet, he showed signs of competitive genius. Matt Martinson, Punahou Trainer, says of the event, "Todd was battling another runner for 2nd place in the 1500 and he simply would not back down." Martinson replays the action, "Todd kept digging deeper and deeper, and then found the strength to out kick the other runner, I knew right then he was something special."

Todd went on to win State Titles in Cross Country and Track and break the Hawaii Record for the 3000 with an 8:33.

When Todd reported to fall camp at Michigan, the reality check came quickly. "Yates," Todd said through his cell phone "the pace and the distance of our workouts are extreme. I'm not sure I can run with these guys."

The doubt compounded as the workouts got harder, the weather got colder, and competition got stiffer. Running at that level of intensity can produce injuries and sickness. Todd had both and yet he stuck it out.

Todd speaks to the issues:

Running Below the Line: "When I got hurt and then sick, things went bad, I lost my fire, 'ratcheted' down my intensity and running became no fun. When I quit smiling, I hit a bottom. Basically, I had three choices: quit, stay in the muddle or learn to accept the reality of my situation."

Running Above the Line: "I've learned that the intensity of the practices is a test and not a final exam. The tests bring out the best in me and reveal what I need to improve. The challenge is to eliminate thoughts about winning. The 'shoulds' cause me to focus on the negative and resist the process."

Staying Present: "The intensity of our training sessions has made me stronger and increased my pain threshold. I'm learning to push my limits and be calm, present, and concentrate on my mechanics and feel strong."

Embracing the Challenges: "The personal confronts have taught me how to reframe negative thoughts and separate myself from my performance. I can now accept bad work-outs, injuries, and sickness as part of the process."

Have Fun and Find the Value: "I have learned to link fun with test. In high school I linked fun with excel . When I didn't excel here (Michigan) I spiraled down. Now I'm able to enjoy and endure each test and accept the results. The next big test will be this fall. I have a burning desire to excel on the National Level. First and foremost, I must be true to the process; stay healthy, reach my full potential as a runner and have fun."