What sports are you involved in at WEGO?

I do cross country and track.

And how long have you been participating in each?

It’s about to be 2 years running at WEGO. I’m a sophomore now. I’ve done cross country and track for all 3 years in middle school. In total, I’ve been doing cross country and track for 4-5 years.

What made you decide to start running competitively? How did you get your start?

It all started with me wanting to get in shape. I started to run faster during gym class and my fifth grade gym teacher recommended that I should get in a meet – one that had kids from different elementary schools go to the West Chicago Community High School track and [then] race. I ended up getting a medal at the race. The medal made me want to become better; it sparked something inside of me. I started to like running and the feeling of the wind brushing against me; I felt free.

Throughout middle school, I started to run competitively, getting PRs (personal records) and some awards.

What do you like most about track?

I like the people the most in track. Everyone is so friendly and so supportive, cheering each other on. I love them. When I was a freshman, I was nervous having to meet new people, [but] they made me feel comfortable with this school building and environment that was new to me at the time.

What has been your most memorable experience running at WEGO?

One of my most memorable experiences is when we went to Lorado Taft in the summer. We went on some runs, played games, and ate s’mores. It was such a good team bonding experience, and it made us become closer with each other.

Who inspires you as an athlete?

My parents are the ones who inspire me as an athlete. They encourage me to go out there and try my best. They are very supportive with my love for running. They come to my meets even when it’s raining and cold outside.

If you could say anything to your coach or teammates, what would you say?

I would say thank you to my coaches, Ari and Cassie. They are always there for me. They are always cheering for everyone. Even when I have my bad races, they were the ones who made me feel better. They’ve taught me that not in every race there is gonna be a PR, we are all gonna have our good races and bad races.

Cassie’s workouts, even though I complain about them, they are amazing and have helped me improve in running and have made me stronger both mentally and physically. I want to thank Cassie for that.