XC Spotlight: Emily Nix - Winter Park

 
Emily Nix was an integral force in Winter Park's 4A runner-up finish in 2013 as a sophomore. Nix was 10th individually and looks to improve on that finish in 2014. She recalls her earliest memories of the sport, talks summer training and favorite workouts, plus more in this XC Spotlight.

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I have been running since 6th grade. I started running because it was the only sport I seemed to excel at. 
 
Do you remember your first real race?
 
My first real race was on the concrete middle school track. All I can remember is being terrified! 
 
How was your summer training?
 
My summer training had a rough start. Within the first week I got really sick and had to take two weeks off. Finally, I got back into shape. Then two weeks in, I was injured. I decided to cross train while I was injured to stay in shape. My mileage hasn't been very high. I don't even want to know how little it is. With all the days I couldn't run, I probably only ran half the summer.  Now I'm running again and I'm crossing my fingers that nothing else goes wrong. 
 
What is your favorite workout?
 
My favorite workout (if there is such a thing) would probably be mile repeats. I like consistency. 
 
Which meets will you be running in this year?
 
Wow, this year will be crazy! I'm excited because we're planning on running a lot of away meets like Carrolton, Great American, and of course Pre-States.
 
Do you have a favorite course? What do you think is the toughest course in the state? 
 
My favorite course is probably the one I got my PR on- the state course in Tallahassee. It also happens the be the most challenging in my opinion.
 
Out of all your running accomplishments so far, which stands out the most?
 
I'm most proud of making it to states as a freshman individual and this past year being top ten on the podium. I am also proud of my team from going to not making it out of regions one year, all the way to runner up at states the next 
year!
 
What do you love most about running?
 
I like how rewarding running is when you know you challenged yourself and did the best you could do. I also enjoy beating people.
 

The Low Down

We wanted to get in-depth and personal with Emily. Check out the low down.
 
Do you have a favorite quote?
 
I guess the Nike slogan "Just Do It." I love everything Nike.
 
Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?
 
Pre-race ritual, doesn't exist- but I do try to have my special oatmeal before every race.
 
What is your favorite food?
 
I love steak and mashed potatoes.
 
What brand of shoes do you train/race in?
 
I train in the Brooks Glycerin 12
 
What is something most people don't know about you? 
 
Hmm... not much! I'm an open book!
 
Lastly, if you were stranded on an island with three things what would they be?
 
They would probably be mac and cheese to eat, Katie Kuhn because she would be prepared with supplies, and Beyoncé CDs so we could have dance parties every night.
 

More Coverage