by Dan Ninham, Contributing Writer
River Michael-Bread is Lenape and Kiowa. He is a graduating senior at Western Heights High School in Oklahoma.
Michael-Bread is called a late bloomer in athletic circles. He had a not so hidden talent as a distance runner and ended up running the 1600m in a personal record 4:38.16 at the recent Oklahoma State High School 5A Track Meet (OSSAA). He placed 10th and was quite the accomplishment in the big school division competing against seasoned runners that have been on the track for more than a few years. He has been on the track only one year. Rowan Meyers of Bishop Kelley HS won the race in 4:24.99.
“Indigenous core values like connection with the community helps me when I’m racing,” said River Michael-Bread. “Connecting with my teammates which builds strong connections that help push me further at practice, and connecting with the community helps me remember that I got people behind me to support me. The sweat lodge also definitely helps.”
“Coach Tilly has helped my running with his technique tips,” said Michael-Bread. “He has been able to push me farther in running. His ability to not only find flaws but correct them within 10 minutes has taken my running to a whole different level.”
“River has shown great leadership throughout his years at Western Heights,” said Coach Randy Tilly. “He is the sitting club president of the Native American club. He has lead our first stomp dance and has elevated our program with more cultural activities and members.”
“River was voted by his peers as Mr. Western Heights this year as well as our team captain in cross country and track,” added Coach Tilly.
Coach Tilly continued, “He represented his Lenape heritage at the University of Princeton this past spring which was a big honor. To meet and discuss culture to the staff and students of Princeton.”
“Coach Mack has been my main trainer during the season,” said Michael-Bread. “He has taught me how to train properly in finding a good median between quantity of miles and quality in reps.”
“Coach Andrews has been with me since freshman year,” said Michael-Bread. “He’s been a big motivator in just getting things done and has taught me many life lessons through the years.”
“My mom has been my main supporter in running,” said Michael-Bread. “Without her influence I don’t think running would have been an option for me.”
River has been following the leader since he was able to walk. Nicky Michael has been an avid fitness enthusiast from road races to multi-sport events and generally just being in a fitness mode. The results have paid dividends to her sons being active in the classroom and on the track and court.
“Since River was a baby, he has been on long runs with me,” said mom Nicky Michael. “We also went to the track a lot when he was young. His first love was basketball and he dreamed of the NBA. We encouraged him to go into track and cross country.”
“For his senior year, he started basketball but we explained how this year, he should dedicate himself to training for running. Leading by example, I run almost every day. I’ve told him to be able to run that fast is special and he should continue to develop his talent,” added mom Nicky.
“The most lactic I’ve ever built in my legs felt like they gave up on me towards the end,” said Michael-Bread. “The pace was very quick … far quicker than I was used to.”
“Even at regionals when I ran only four seconds slower. It was probably just the adrenaline rush but I ran as hard as I possibly could at that time, and even as I did with people saying I did great for a 16th seed it feels unfulfilling. I didn’t finish off strong and fast as I usually do,” added Michael-Bread.
“State was definitely a different feeling and I wish I could do it again and I know what’d I’d do different,” said Michael-Bread. “I’m proud of myself for finishing top 10 in Class 5A and I will definitely continue running.”
“River is a senior and captain of our track team, maintaining an impressive 3.8 GPA,” said Coach Tilly. “He competed in the 1600m, 800m, and 4×800 relay. Although his times haven’t dropped consistently throughout the year only running five minutes 5:09.00 he showed remarkable determination and improvement when it mattered most – at Regionals, where he achieved PR in 1600m with a time of 4:46.23 and then PR again at State, where he dropped to 4:31.25.”
“Transitioning seamlessly from cross-country to track, River dedicated himself to refining his running form, endurance, and speed. He worked tirelessly, including weekends, to hone his skills. His mental toughness and focus are truly impressive, and I believed he’d be a valuable asset to our team.”
