1. How did you discover your interest for running?

When I was little I loved playing tag, and I still do! :)  My Dad would play intense tag games with me. I remember having so much fun. I joined the cross country team in third grade, and I loved it. I especially liked to race. My Mom signed me up for a few kids races, and I had a blast. I was never nervous back then.

2. What are your main motivations for doing cross country?

Being part of a team really motivates me. I always want to do the best I can, and I want to make my team proud. I would love to break one of the records at Annandale HS.

3. How have your friends and family supported you?

I am so lucky to be part of the cross country team. The first day of practice I remember that everyone from the team, boys and girls, welcomed me like they knew me for years. They immediately accepted me. I never imagined having such a caring team. They always encourage me during practice, they pump me up by playing music, they take my mind off of the pressure, they always look out for me, they make me laugh. I love being part of the team. I look forward to every practice after school. My family is really supportive, including my dog. She loves to race with me.

4. What do you like most about your coaches?

All my coaches are hard working. They really care about us, and they want us to succeed. I love that Coach Harris makes sure everyone is alright. I love that Coach Scarborough is always positive. I love that Coach Ciccarelli makes the long runs fun.

5. Who is your favorite sport hero?

I am inspired by many runners, especially Scott Jurek, Kathrine Switzer, and Rory Bosio. They are all amazing runners and great examples for young athletes.

6. How has being an athlete made you a better person?

Running has taught me patience and perseverance. I learned to accept outcomes, good or bad, and learned from my mistakes. Running helps me to concentrate and release the stress from the school day.

7. What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I have ever received was from my Mom. She told me that it doesn’t matter what place or time you got. It doesn’t matter how you look. What matters is that you tried your very best.

8. What is your daily training routine?

My training varies each week. It consists of long, hard runs, easy runs, and speed training.

9. What do you like to do in your free time?

I usually don’t have much free time, but when I do, I like to relax. I also like to spend time with my family, friends, and dog. I love to dance and to learn new moves.

10. What is your favorite song to listen to prior to competing?

I like any songs that are fast and upbeat.

11. How do you calm down if you’re feeling nervous before competing?

I like to talk to my teammates. It helps me focus on them and not on my race. I also like to be distracted by listening to music.

12. How did you feel when you got first place at the Monroe Parker invitational?

I was tired, but once I saw my teammates, coaches, and family waiting for me I got a surge of energy. It was amazing to hear my teammates chanting my name at the last hill. I felt so happy to have the whole team there.

13. What is one thing you always do after a good performance?

I get to relax. Also, my Mom gives me a good massage.

14. What are your long term goals for yourself regarding cross country?

My main goal is to try my very best at all my races. I am trying to train smart and avoid injuries.

15. Are there any events you don’t like to do?

Track is not my favorite, especially the 800m. However, it helps me become a stronger cross country runner.

16. Do you know what college you want to go to, and will you be doing cross country there?

I have no idea where I will be going to college, but I hope to continue running as long as I still enjoy it.

17. What other sports are you interested in?

I used to play volleyball, and I really like it. I wish I could still play it, but with running it’s hard to do another sport.

18. What advice would you give to cross country newcomers?

Showing up to practices and putting effort in the workouts is a good start. Get to know your teammates, support each other, and make sure to have fun at the races!