Flrunners.com: What was your most memorable race/moment?
Grace Paul: My most memorable race was the 4by8 at regionals this year. The race was insanely competitive and the finish was so close. My team and I were able to run our fastest time all season (9:52) and win the region. We were so excited and couldn't believe it!
FLR: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
GP: My biggest competition would definitely be my teammates. I say this because when I think of competition, I think of someone running next to you who motivates you to work harder everyday. I've had the greatest high school teammates because they have all challenged and helped me in both practices and races.
FLR: What was your greatest accomplishment?
GP: I believe my greatest accomplishment was being able to recover from hip surgery last spring and run during my senior year. I struggled throughout the summer and fall months to gain fitness and run fast. Being able to finish my high school running career at the track state meet really made me feel like I had overcome a great obstacle.
FLR: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
GP: If I could do it all over again, I would definitely listen to my body more. Before surgery, I was almost always running with some kind of pain (mainly stress fractures). Looking back, I know that I could've avoided many of my injuries if I had simply listened to what my body was telling me.
FLR: What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
GP: As I said, I struggled with multiple injuries during my high school career. With that said, my most difficult obstacle was my own self doubt. Until my senior year, I was constantly trying to come back from injuries. Whenever I stepped on the line to race, I would doubt myself and think "These girls probably have so much more training than I do. There's no way I can stay with them". Eventually, I was able to build my confidence and start races knowing that I belonged in the race. This mindset made all the difference.
FLR: What will you miss the most?
GP: I will miss my team more than anything. The Fort Myers girls are one big dysfunctional family, and I am so blessed to have had all of them in my life. I've made so many memories over the past 4 years that I will always cherish.
FLR: What advice you would give to younger athletes?
GP: The greatest piece of advice that I could give is to make sure you love the sport. Because when it's 4:00am and your alarm clock goes off for practice, your love for the sport is what makes it possible to get out of bed. If your sport doesn't make you happy, then find something that does make you happy.
FLR: What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
GP: My coach Rob Strong has been the greatest coach and role model that I could've asked for. Rob not only believed in me, but he was somehow able to make me believe in myself. I'm so thankful for all the time that Rob has spent helping myself and the rest of the team achieve both our individual and collective goals.
FLR: What are your college plans?
GP: I will be attending and running for Stetson University in the fall. I am very excited to have the opportunity to run in college and receive a great education in the honors program. Go Hatters!
FLR: Who would you like to say thank you to?
GP: I'd like to say thank you to my family. The past 4 years definitely haven't been easy, but they've supported me through everything. I would also like the thank the running community for being so awesome and for giving me some amazing friends.
FLR: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
GP: Never give up on your dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. Also, good luck to everyone on their summer training. I hope it brings great success in the fall.