The Joy of Running – Newsome’s Tucker Twins Story
by Noel "Bravo" Francis for DyeStat Florida - It is always fascinating to see identical twins compete in a sporting event for more than one reason. They have a special bond from the womb, perhaps a unique way of thinking, feeling and communicating which often manifest itself in their behavior.
The Tucker twins (Andrew & Christian) of the Newsome High School cross country team in the State of Florida have been quietly earning a reputation as a formidable duo in the event. The twins are seniors and would like to play an integral role in their team’s objective, which is, being among the top cross country schools this season. Newsome High has won the 4A District 7 title in Region 2 for the last four years.
In an in-depth interview, the 17-year-old twins shared aspects of their lives that have kept them rooted, focused, inspired, loving, respectful, truthful and faithful.
The Tucker twins were born prematurely (35 weeks) in San Antonio, Texas. Their parents are from St. Louis, Missouri. The twins being military children have had the privilege of moving around to a lot of places such as Texas, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Tennessee, Pennsylvania and Florida. They have met some incredible friends along the way.
The family has always played a huge part in the lives of the Tucker twins’ and they speak passionately about the influence received within the closely knit group. According to Andrew, their father, a Full-Bird Colonel in the US Army taught them many things including an inspirational quote that acts as his motto “Live a purpose-driven life.” His brother Christian also has an equally inspirational motto, which says, “Find a positive situation in every negative one.”
The twins’ parents have athletic backgrounds and know a thing or two about competition. Their father was an excellent varsity soccer player in high school and at the club level winning a few titles and their mother was a fantastic gymnast who reached level 10 by the end of her junior year in high school. She was also a cheerleader for the University of Missouri – St. Louis. According to Christian, the support he receives from his parents is simply amazing. He says, “I couldn’t be the runner I am without them. They are so encouraging and no matter how I do they are always so happy and help me to stay positive and just to get ready for my next race.” Christian also credits being inspired by his influential older brother Adam who displays positive energy in all situations.
Andrew did not hesitate when asked about his role models and why. He said, “Easily the most important people in my life are my parents and my sister. My dad has always been my role model for the ideal man. A well educated hard working individual who despite being in the military for 33 years and serving in the Rangers for four years where he went into the battle of Grenada has remained a happy, positive guy who puts God before all else. He is so kind, gentle, and patient. He is a true man, not a tough talker “hard” guy but rather a true tough guy, someone who has done everything he could do for his family, always being there for his children and loving them and helping them no matter what. He instilled upon me what it meant to be a follower of Christ and he will always remain to me the greatest man I ever knew or will know.”
“Now my mom; my mom is the greatest woman I have ever known. She has been a devoted military wife for 25 plus years which is an extremely tough life and has always been there for her kids. I don’t just mean she was there like in an emotional way, but she was there day and night helping us with school 24/7, sports, emotions, and literally everything you could think of. She took on our lives along with her own which makes her the greatest woman I have ever known because she has sacrificed everything in her life to be there for us to make sure we will make it out okay.”
Andrew continued, “My sister (Lucey) is hands down one of my biggest role models. I know it sounds silly saying my eight-year-old adopted sister from China is just that, but she is. The fact that she was adopted with a missing ear and yet has the biggest smile on her face every single day makes me realize that no matter how hard my life gets there is no reason not to smile because life is too good. She has turned out to be the biggest blessing in my life and a constant reminder and symbol of hope, happiness and most importantly love. Next to my twin I love her most in this world and will till the end of my days.”
Andrew, who seriously got involved into running some four years after his brother Christian while in the 8th grade at a private high school, has never looked back. He credits being completely passionate and devoted to track after witnessing Britain’s star athlete Mo Farah’s stunning victory in the 10,000m at the 2012 London Olympics. Christian, who started earlier, was very happy his brother took up the sport and gives Andrew credit for making him a better runner. Christian says, “He’s a great running buddy, if I feel down he’s very encouraging and I couldn’t be the runner I am without him.”
Andrew was just as glowing when speaking about Christian whom he termed his best friend in track. “He pushes me every single day to be a better runner. The only person I love watching run more than myself is him. He has been my best friend since I was born, and I owe my love for running to him. He is the reason I fell in love with the Kenyans and is the reason the “Kenyan twins” came about. There isn’t a person I have seen at our level that is more passionate about running than him. He would die trying to finish a race and would be glad doing it. His persistence and love for the sport is something that everyone should take note of because very few people find a passion as great as his and those who do will never let go of it because it’s that great. I can’t believe I was so fortunate enough to be blessed with a friend as awesome as him and need to thank God more often for it.” It seems very clear that when the Tucker twins race together it’s twice the fun. Christian’s best time in the 5k is 17 minutes 21 seconds and 4:48 seconds in the mile. While Andrew, who has improved a lot since last season, has a best 5k time of 18 minutes 47 seconds and 11 minutes 29 seconds in the 2-mile event.
In most families with more than one children (twins being no exception), there will be sibling rivalries and the Tucker Twins are no different, however, in a mildly entertaining way. For example, when Christian was asked who was born first, he said, “that’s a very interesting story. I (Christian) was scheduled to arrive on the scene first. However, my brother’s heart stopped. So I kind of ease off and made way for him to get urgent attention. We often joke about it, and I tell him that’s the only race that he’ll ever beat me in.” He continued “Though the birth time was officially recorded a minute apart, I’m told it was a lot closer like 20 or 30 seconds because they had to work real quickly.”
Andrew claims to be the better cook of the two, he says with confidence. “I love cooking just for the art of it, plus I’m fascinated with the food/health side of running, so I like to do that stuff. Christian thinks it’s cool but doesn’t actually cook (laughs). He would rather have someone else make it and go on a five miler while they do.”
Interestingly, when Christian was asked about his favorite drink he surprisingly did not answer Gatorade instead he said, “My favorite drink would have to be water, because water is not only great tasting after a run, and I couldn’t survive without it, but it’s also free.”
Like most teenagers, the twins like to play video games (The Legend of Zelda & FIFA), watch movies and hang out with friends during their spare time. They also like to read a lot with Christian’s favorite book being - The Lore of Running. Andrew, who enjoys a good debate, is also very philosophical and along with Christian keeps abreast of international and current affairs. The twins are devoted Christians with a sense of purpose. Christian Tucker in outlining one of his long-term ambitions, says, “It’s also a goal of mine to go to Kenya with my brother to train and do missionary work there.”
However, the Twins’ immediate targets are achieving cross country success for the Newsome Wolves team. When it comes to competition, the Tucker twins are focused, direct and fiercely competitive. They have identified one school, in particular, to be their main rivals. According to Andrew, “Our biggest rival without a doubt is Plant High School. I am sure they don’t see us the same way, but we have always strived as a team to be like them. In our cool downs, we would joke about Plant and how good they are.”
He further stated, “We have a great group of guys so there’s no telling what we can do. Our Coach (Bryan Sears) is a really good guy and has got us through this season. He prepared us well, so I think we have a good shot. The coach has done so much for our team and without him I certainly wouldn’t love running as much as I do and neither would the team.”
The Tucker twins remain upbeat that their Newsome Wolves team will put up a creditable showing in the upcoming regional meets and State championships despite recent injury setbacks to some of their top runners including Christian. Christian was very forthright about his injury, he said, “Last year was great, and so I was excited and looking forward to this season my senior year to carry my team, give them encouragement and leadership. However, the injury has taken a toll on me mentally & physically, and it’s disappointing not being able to run with my teammates.” However, Christian is sticking by his personal motto and hoping his team will rise to the occasion.
The brothers have chosen running to be a way of life and Christian puts it best when he says, “The most interesting thing I have ever done in my life is running. Even though it’s a simple idea just running a straight line, it is so much more than it appears. It helps me to strive to be the man that I am in every area of my life. It has helped me to be a more Godly, hard working, passionate, caring person, and I think that’s amazing because I became better at all of these things by just running.” In the future, Christian hopes to compete in marathon races and a few triathlons which he feels will make him much healthier.
The Tucker twins are already looking forward to college, and although their decisions will be largely dependent on which State they are located, they have identified the Universities of South Florida and George Washington as ideal institutions for their continued development. For now, they are just appreciating the joy of running.
About the Author:
Noel ‘Bravo’ Francis is a very exciting and creative freelance sports writer from Jamaica specializing in the fields of athletics and cricket. His colourful down to earth yet professional personality makes him a favourite amongst athletes and fans. Readers are often exposed to his detailed knowledge and passion that usually increase their interest in the athletes, events and the sport overall. He has a first degree in Banking & Finance and works in the financial industry. Contact Noel at [email protected]
Follow Noel "Bravo" Francis on Twitter @nanthonyfrancis
Read More from Noel on DyeStat Florida HERE
