(Photo by Tom Connor)
Over the past three years, Alexandra Del Re has been making a name for herself on the track. Del Re, who goes by Ali, had a stellar performance at both the middle school state meet and the USATF Junior Olympics. Not only did she win her 3000 meter race at the state meet, but she also broke the middle school state record running 10:04.16. This fall she makes her cross country debut as a freshman at Jupiter High School. Del Re is expected to not only make noise in Palm Beach County, but in a loaded class 4A. We caught up with Ali to talk about how she started in the sport, her summer training, goals for 2016, and much more.
How long have you been running and how did you get started?
In 6th grade, I made my middle school track team as a sprinter, running the 100 and 200. During tryouts in 7th grade, one of the days was for the 1600 and so I tried it. I did well, coming in first, and have been running the longer distances since. March of this year was the first time I joined a track club, BTA. I got started after my parents noticed that I was fast on the soccer field. I've been playing travel soccer since I was 7 years old.
What do you enjoy most about running?
I enjoy competing against other runners and also pushing myself to run faster times.
What has your summer training been like?
My summer training mostly consisted of yoga, plyometrics, and core workouts. I also did track workouts getting ready for the Junior Olympics.
How was your experience with the BTA track club this summer?
My training club this summer was BTA with coaches Thomas Johnson and Glen Roeback. The experience was very exciting because I had never been trained and coached by a track club. I enjoy gaining more knowledge after every practice and meet on how to run properly.
Do you have any pre-race routines?
Before races I enjoy listening to my favorite music which pumps me up for the race.
In May, you broke the middle school state record in the 3,000m after only running that race two or three times during the year. What was that race like for you?
This was my first major race and by far the biggest one that I've ran at the time. I had a lot of competition compared to the other middle school races. Even though it was a big race, it was really cool because I got to meet a lot of different girls from all over the state. Before the day I raced, my dad and I watched the Rebecca Clark video of her breaking the state record. After watching it, I never thought that would've been me. So that's why the experience definitely felt so surreal.
Two months later you win the 3,000m at the USATF Junior Olympics. How did it feel to come away with a gold medal?
This race was in July, after the state meet, so I had been working really hard for it. The race was cool because I was going to a different state and all these other girls going were the fastest in their states. Going there, I wanted to at least medal since I knew that the 3000m was my best race. I would say I was excited and nervous at the same time which is why I couldn't sleep the night before.
Out of all your running accomplishments so far, which stands out the most?
The middle school state race was the one that has stood out the most because it was my first big race where I had fast competitors.
Watch Ali set the FLYRA Middle School State Championship meet record in the 3,000m with her time of 10:04.16.
Rapid Fire Questions
What do you like to do outside of the sport?
Besides running, I enjoy going paddle boarding, walking along the beach with my mom, walking my two dogs and hanging out with my friends. I also really love to cook! I'm always trying new recipes and am very excited about a new cookbook I just got, "Run Fast, Eat Slow" by U.S. marathoner Shalane Flanagan.
What is your favorite food?
Some of my favorite foods are salmon, sweet potatoes, grilled chicken, and greek yogurt. One of my favorite treats is the acai bowls from 3 Natives Shop in Tequesta.
Do you have a favorite quote, movie, or book?
My favorite quote is "All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." by Walt Disney.
What has been one of your favorite vacations with your family and/or friends?
One of my favorite family vacations was last summer when we traveled to Chicago for a soccer tournament. The city, restaurants, and sites were awesome. Another great time was when we traveled to Lake Martin near Auburn, AL and stayed in a house right on the lake. I had a great time with my cousins.
By The Numbers (Personal Bests)
- 800m - 2:22.79
- 1500m - 4:39.87
- 1600m - 5:09.53
- 1 Mile - 5:24.33
- 3000m - 9:54.76
- 3200m - 10:58.38
