Collinsville’s Harry Henslick is making the most of his senior year at Collinsville High School.

Henslick, who has excelled in cross country and track during his career with the Cardinals, is saving his best for last.

He wants to cap his track career with a podium finish at the Class 5A Track & Field State Championships in May.

He might be well on his way.

“[I] want to make the podium for state in the 800 meter,” said Henslick, who just set a personal record in the 800 with a time of 2:01 Friday, April 28 at the Metro Lake Conference Championships in Tahlequah and also competes in the 1600 meter.

Henslick was coming off a first-place finish in the 800 meter (2:04) on April 21 at the Spartan Track & Field Invitational in Bixby prior to his personal-best time in Tahlequah. He also ran a 4:48 in the 1600 meter at Bixby.

Henslick, who has been running competitively for six years, credits his mental toughness as the biggest key to his success as a senior.

“I’m always wanting to run better and faster, and this season I can say I have done exactly that,” he said. “Team wise, we’re in a really good spot in age and have a lot of guys doing great in their events.

“My strength is my mental toughness and ability to keep going, even when it starts sucking.”

His favorite moment came in cross country as a freshman.

“My most memorable moment as a high school athlete would be going to state my freshman year with the team in cross country,” Henslick said.

Henslick is inspired by famed American record holder and 1972 Olympian Steve Prefontaine, and says 200 repeats is his favorite drill, calling it the perfect workout to a better 800.

But there’s something even more important than being successful as a runner for Henslick. 

“I like going to church, as that’s the most important aspect of my life,” he said. “I also like playing video games and having Bible studies with my friends.

“I plan to go to Oklahoma Baptist University and pursue a degree in Christian Ministries with a pastoral emphasis.”