2025-26 Track and Field Roster
Jacob Tarkington
- Class:
- Freshman
- Position:
- Mid-Distance
- Height:
- 5-11
- Hometown:
- Johns Creek, Ga.
- Prev School:
- Home Schooled
Prep
Personal
Student-Athlete Q&A
What made Liberty University the right place for you to attend college/compete at the collegiate level?
It is a faith-based college with an amazing community. Liberty offers the degree I am interested in. I have always enjoyed visiting my grandparents in Virginia too. Liberty also provides an opportunity for me to run track in college.
Is there anything special you do pregame or postgame and why?
I pray before and after my races and get a sweet treat post-race.
Who in your life inspires you and why are they such an inspiration?
My grandpa inspires me to be a better, stronger, and wiser man of God. He has helped me learn how to learn, and he has taught me several problem-solving skills.
What is your most memorable athletic moment/accomplishment?
When I crossed the finish line in 2022 at USAT Nationals. Also the last four races of my senior track year.
Favorite meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner) and what is that special meal?
Bacon avocado toast from Dunkin; Chicken nuggets with Chick-fil-A sauce; Chicken parm sliders
What is the first app you check on your phone each day?
Messages
What is your favorite hobby outside of athletics?
Dirt bike riding
Do you have any current pets (name and type of animal)?
My dog Rhett (golden retriever)
- Home schooled
- Raced to four Georgia GAPPS state titles during his career, spanning the 400 to the 1,600
- Closed out his senior year by placing fifth in the 800 at RunningLane (personal-best 1:50.69) and taking 10th in the event at Nike Outdoor Nationals
- Also played football
Personal
- Son of Wesley and Kelly Tarkington
- Birthday is March 13
- Plans to major in aviation maintenance management
Student-Athlete Q&A
What made Liberty University the right place for you to attend college/compete at the collegiate level?
It is a faith-based college with an amazing community. Liberty offers the degree I am interested in. I have always enjoyed visiting my grandparents in Virginia too. Liberty also provides an opportunity for me to run track in college.
Is there anything special you do pregame or postgame and why?
I pray before and after my races and get a sweet treat post-race.
Who in your life inspires you and why are they such an inspiration?
My grandpa inspires me to be a better, stronger, and wiser man of God. He has helped me learn how to learn, and he has taught me several problem-solving skills.
What is your most memorable athletic moment/accomplishment?
When I crossed the finish line in 2022 at USAT Nationals. Also the last four races of my senior track year.
Favorite meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner) and what is that special meal?
Bacon avocado toast from Dunkin; Chicken nuggets with Chick-fil-A sauce; Chicken parm sliders
What is the first app you check on your phone each day?
Messages
What is your favorite hobby outside of athletics?
Dirt bike riding
Do you have any current pets (name and type of animal)?
My dog Rhett (golden retriever)
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