Grade: 12

PR’s: 200 - 28.84, 400 - 63.53, 800 - 2:28.22, 1600 - 5:30.79, 4K XC - 16:18

KR: How did you get into Cross Country?

A: My dad is the Maranatha track and Field Coach and he strongly suggested I do it. Plus, I knew Coach Williams prior to running for her, so I knew that I would love running for her.

KR: What do you like most about XC?

A: My team. I have been blessed to have an amazing group of girls to run with every year. Some of my closest friendships have been with my teammates. Plus, I don’t think we go through a practice without laughing.

KR: Do you have any pre-race or pre-meet rituals/traditions as an individual or team?

A: We always pray as a team before we run any race. As for me as an individual, I always sing the song “Marvelous Light” because it helps me to remember that I get my strength from the Lord, and I am running to glorify God and not myself.

KR: How many miles per week do you typically run?

A: I’m not a very high mileage runner, but probably around 35 miles.

KR: What is your favorite type of workout?

A: Sprint workouts!! Call me crazy, but I would rather do twelve 400’s then a 5 mile run any day.

KR: What is your favorite XC course/meet and why?

A: Wamego (1-4A State). I would say this is my favorite because I have some great memories from there. Plus, you always push yourself to your limits. The course is challenging, so it really shows you who is going to gut it out and break the pain barrier.

KR: Would you prefer to race in a muddy mess or on a super fast course?

A: Really I would love either. That is the great thing about cross country. It is run in all types of weather and terrain, each meet is a different experience.

KR: What do you like to do outside of Cross Country?

A: I also play basketball and run track. I am involved in some different clubs in school. What I love most, though, is to be around my friends and to laugh.

KR: Who is your favorite college sports team?

A: University of Kansas Cross Country team. I hear this really awesome and cool guy is on that team. You might have heard of him, Zach Zarda (my brother).

KR: What do you think we could do in Kansas to make the sport better?

A: I would say it would be to have 1A-6A state at one location. This way you can compare people’s times from different classes more accurately.

KR: Finally, if you could have one super hero power, what would you want?

A: Well with great power comes great responsibility, and I’m not sure I am ready for that one. I mean, I am only seventeen!