Idabel’s Ronald Deramus – Cross Country/Golf Spotlight – Presented by Work Ready Oklahoma

For Ronald Deramus, setting the pace means chasing down ambitious goals. When asked about what he wants to accomplish this season, he answered simply: “Run in the 18–19-minute range for a 5k.”

That mindset carries into how he views his team’s progress this year. “Very good,” Deramus said when describing how things have been going so far. The simplicity of his response reflects a focus on effort and consistency rather than complicating what it takes to improve.

Much of that comes down to attitude. “Work ethic,” he explained as the biggest key to what makes him and his teammates successful.

The target is clear as the season builds toward its conclusion. “Doing well at state, we put in a lot of practice to achieve the goal,” Deramus said. His confidence comes from what the team has invested daily in preparation.

Support among teammates plays just as important of a role. “Everyone pushing each-other to do better,” he said when asked what makes this group special.

Deramus’s perspective shapes the way he approaches a race. “Where to push and where to stride out,” he explained about what he focuses on while competing.

Preparation is essential for him to stay sharp. “Drink water and stretch,” he said when asked how he gets ready to compete.

His mindset is equally important once the race begins. “To run my own race and don’t worry about anyone else,” Deramus explained.

While cross country is a major part of his identity, his dreams go beyond the trails. “To be one of the best golfers to play at Idabel,” he said when asked about his goals in another sport.

The balance of sports and friendships keeps him motivated. “We are all good friends outside of the sport,” Deramus said of his teammates.

And as he looks to the future, he’s focused on his path. “I play golf and cross country. I hope to play golf in college and get a degree in sports management.”