I just went from 7th fastest distance runner to 3rd!

Nice going! Progress like that should motivate you to train hard so you continue to improve. If you're just a freshman, you will get better just by growing bigger and stronger (the complete opposite of the direction I'm headed). Throw in some solid training, and there's no telling how good you will get. Just the fact that you posted this shows me that you're excited about your running. Good luck to you!

thanks!

Congratulations! I went through a similar quick progression, going from a 24:15 5K to a 16:50 5K after a lot of growing. Keep at it and work hard and I'm sure you can make substantial gains too.

A word of warning, though: sometimes when you grow quickly, it can take a little bit to get adjusted to your new size, and for some runners, this means injury. Granted, this is much more common in women than men, but just something to keep in mind - it kept me injured for the first half of my sophomore track season. Good luck, and keep up the great running!

Thanks for the advice I'll be careful!

I'm updating. I am now beating our second guy and within striking distance of our first place runner who is expected to run in the 4:30s and sub 10 this year!!!