(Photo by Jeff Adams)
Hey Flrunners! I hope everyone has ran some great first races and gotten some fast times. Based on all the results I've seen, it seems like it's going to be an amazing season! It's been a while since I've blogged, but I've got so much to talk about. So let's get started.
This past Saturday, well technically yesterday, my team and I raced at the UF Mt. Dew Invitational in Gainesville. It was such a fun and competitive race and I'm so glad we get to run there! When we arrived at the golf course (aka a runners' paradise to run on), I was feeling a combination of nerves and excitement. It was my first major invitational of the season and I wanted to do well. One of the many reasons I love this race is that I get to watch college runners compete before me. I had the opportunity to see my brother, Antony, and former teammate, Joey Maus, run! Watching them compete got me pumped up for my race, while helping me relax. Our Varsity boys team also raced before we did. The boys all looked strong and ran very tough during their race. They placed second and had five runners under the 17 minute mark. Shout out to senior, Bryce Statham, who placed 7th individually and to freshman, Nick Rischar, for running an amazing first invitational.
Next, it was time for the varsity girls to race. My goals were to either get a better time than I did at this race last year or to PR. My team and I all warmed up together, laced up our spikes, used the always awesome portalets (eww), and found our spot on the starting line. From the start line, various team chants and prayers could be heard. Before I knew it, the gun sounded and the race had begun. I got out and made sure not to get boxed in. Throughout my whole race, I kept telling myself to stay focused, remember my goals, and to have fun. Turning into the home stretch, I heard people cheering. I distinctly remember hearing my brother scream, "You're going to break 18! You gotta go now!" Coming across the finish line and realizing that I had finally broken the 18 minute barrier (17:56.53) was a great feeling. As a runner, things like this mean a great deal to you and it's a feeling you just can't describe. Congratulations to all the girls who ran that race and to the JV runners as well! Keep working hard!
Always remember to push yourself and give 110% Stay positive and stay focused! Remember that even though running is a competitive sport, it's also about having fun. Now let's show everyone what us Florida kids can do!
Happy running!
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