Johnathan Ylitalo is a senior at Enid High School, competing on the Plainsmen’s cross country team. He’s been running all four years and has been a varsity runner the past three seasons. This season, Ylitalo is the No. 1 runner for Enid and coach Steve Bloom. “Johnathan is a dedicated runner, who works hard every day in practice,” Bloom said. “He gives 100 percent the entire practice while pushing his teammates to improve.”

Ylitalo hit a personal best of 19:48 earlier this season and plans to hit another one at sub 19 minutes. He’s also looking to qualify for the state meet for the first time in his career.

He also competes on the Enid swim and track and field teams, where he runs in the mile and two-mile events.

Outside of athletics, Ylitalo is in National Honor Society and is a member of the Enid High School Big Blue Band. This year, he was chosen Big Blue Band King. “When Johnathan is not running or at band practice, he is studying to maintain his 4.0 GPA,” Bloom said.

Upon graduation, Ylitalo would like to attend the University of Oklahoma and study for a career in the medical field. Ylitalo credits his dad, Luke, and coaches for his success in and out of athletics. “My dad has always pushed me to be the best I can be,” Ylitalo said. “My coaches are always pushing me in workouts and showing me what it takes to get better.”