REMEMBERING SOME OF THE GREATEST ATHLETES IN MHS HISTORY (JARED BASSETT)

While at Marshfield, Bassett won the OSAA 5A Cross Country Championship during his senior year. Bassett also has the second fastest 1500-meter race time at Marshfield being only slower than Steve Prefontaine. After graduating from Marshfield Bassett went on to compete in cross county as well as track and field at the University of Portland. While at the University of Portland Bassett was an All American twice on the track in the 3000-meter steeple chase and made the top ten at the NCAA Division One National Championship in the event during his final year at the school. After his time at University of Portland Bassett has qualified for the National Championship in track multiple times. Bassett also placed fifth in the 50K trail championship and the half marathon trail championship in 2015. Bassett is currently sponsored by Brooks Running and continues to train while working.
Bassett said that winning state will always have a special place in his heart, but considers qualifying for the US Championships in the steeplechase to be one of his greatest accomplishments because it puts him on track to make the Olympic trials.

“I would say ultimately my greatest accomplishment is being able to keep running after college for this long because that has been my goal since high school, to run both professionally and for a running company and I’m going to do it as long as I can.” Bassett said.

Bassett grew up in the area and has fond memories of the places that he ran while living here.

“I love running the pack trail out at cape Arago I love running along the cliffs and running to the top of the lookout it is my go to every time I’m in town it is peaceful and reminds me where I am from,” Bassett said.

Bassett feels as though the programs at Marshfield are very unique in comparison to other high schools.

“You might not think you can’t compete in college but if you keep working at it and trust in your coaches and the program you would be amazed how far you can really make it,” Bassett said.