* In 2018, MileSplit traveled to Turkey, Texas, to profile Jake Merrell, who earned a Division I scholarship to Baylor University out of UIL Class 1A school Valley after a distinguished career which saw him win over 10 individual state championships. For more, read 'Jake Merrell Can't Lose' on Flosports.
TURKEY, TEXAS -- Jake Merrell really wants to catch a fish.
Like seriously, you don't even know. But nothing is biting at the moment, and it's really bothering him, so the soon-to-be graduate of Turkey Valley High School, and arguably the greatest small school track and field athlete in Texas history, decides he needs a strategy.
The 18-year-old throws off his green long sleeve into a rickety old fishing boat he's standing on and reveals nothing but lean, carved muscle and a tall runner's frame.
After five minutes, a sense of foreboding lapses over him. Still nothing.
OK, now he's getting anxious. This isn't normal. Jake Merrell always catches fish!
"COME ON, NOW."
"THIS IS RANK."
"BY GOLLY, GIMME A SNAG."
