Getting to know….. Jake Etherington. Edition 27. 
Fast is a family trait. 
For Jake Etherington, speed runs in the family.
His favourite events sit firmly at the sharp end of the track — the 100m and 200m — and even now he can’t quite decide which one he loves more.
“I still can’t choose between them.”
Jake’s route into athletics came through a mix of family influence and curiosity. After playing rugby, it was his dad — and a friend already involved in the sport — who nudged him towards the track. Once he discovered sprinting, there was no looking back. 
What stands out about Jake is his willingness to commit fully when opportunity knocks.
His proudest athletics moment so far?
“Being able to commit to a track team in the US — and then in my second year finishing top three in the indoor 200m at my conference.”
A huge achievement, and one that speaks not just to speed, but to adaptability, resilience, and backing yourself on a big stage. 
Away from competition, celebrations are refreshingly grounded.
“A nice, chilled dinner or lunch back home with my parents — then relaxing and chatting with mates.”
Fast on the track. Calm off it.
And finally, the fun fact that explains a lot:
“I know way too much about Star Wars for my own good.” 
Which probably explains Jake’s sprinting philosophy — short, fast, and over before the Dark Side kicks in.
Or, as Yoda might put it: “Run fast, you must.”
Sprinter. Student-athlete. International competitor.
And proof that The Force is strong in the sprint lanes.
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Inspired by Jake’s story?
Whether you’re drawn to sprints, jumps, endurance — or just want to see how far athletics can take you — Woking AC has a place for you.
Come and find your lane.
seniors@wokingac.com