I've been involved in sports my whole life whether it was soccer or running. I have some huge ambitions that I would love to accomplish so anything that can help me reach those goals keeps me going. This is my first time competing for a team other than my school. Gettng All-State for Cross Country would have to be an award that I'm very proud of.

Although the race itself wasn't a big one, it was still a race that I had set goals for. It was the All-city track and field meet. All of the local schools (regardless of the division and class) got together and competed. The final lap came and I ended up winning the race. The reason that this race has stuck with me is because I proved myself wrong. I got nervous for all the wrong reasons and now understand that it's okay to have self belief.

Determined, competitive, and driven.

I've found that pasta works well for me the night before the event with lots of water through out the previous day of a race. The morning of the race, I have a Shaklee protein shake (chocolate is my favorite) and a banana a couple of hours before my race, simple but it works!

Inspiration for me is support from my parents. I love inspirational quotes. One of my favorites is "Once you're beat mentally you might as well not even go to the start line." - Todd Williams. Concentrate on improving yourself. Focus on things you have an influence over and ignore everything else. Go to bed on time, hydrate, eat well, and ignore the fact that it might be cold and raining. Teammates have proven to be my best friends, we can pump each other up!

Qualify and place top 5 in the Track State meet.

The feeling after accomplishing a huge goal and the adrenaline rush you get on the start line.