OHRunners: What was your experience like at Footlocker?
Sam: I had an unbelievable time at Footlocker. I was extremely fortunate to be a part of a unique group of high school students who were not just amazing runners but also very enjoyable people. Although developing friendships with these competitors was a huge highlight of the trip, the aspect that stuck out to me most was the opportunity I had to participate in an event that I grew up admiring and dreaming of being in as a young runner. I remember watching this event online throughout the past years not knowing I would finally have a chance to take part in such a prestigious race. Being at the historic Balboa Park course, racing with the best runners in the country, and making quality friendships combined for a fantastic weekend and will be something I will never forget.
OHRunners: Having placed 6th in the Regionals running a PR of 15:04, what were your individual expectations getting prepared for the race?
Sam: My goal before the race was to finish in the top 15 to place as an All-American. I knew it was a lofty goal because it had already been a long season, it was going to be the most competitive race that I had ever raced in, and the course was very tough, but I didn’t want to back down from the challenge.
OHRunners: What was your race strategy?
Sam: I planned to start off fast the first 100 meters or so to get in good position because the course really narrowed down after that. Then I wanted to tuck in and run a decently conservative first mile so that I would be strong the last two miles.
OHRunners: What were your thoughts at the starting line?
OHRunners: You were 33rd place in a time of 16:03. Describe your race?
Sam: I was in excellent position right after the gun as I wanted. After that, the competition pushed me to a much faster first mile than I had planned. I slowed down once I saw the clock at the mile mark knowing that I would have to conserve energy for the tough next 2 miles. Unfortunately, the damage had already been done, and the challenging Balboa Park course caused my legs to become heavy much earlier than I expected. I am disappointed with my overall place and time. However, it is just something I need to take as it is, learn from it, and move on knowing that, overall, it was a good experience going up against the top competition in the nation.
OHRunners: How would you describe your 2012 XC season? Compare your experience at the Ohio State championships with that of Footlocker.
Sam: My season met my expectations and was a huge success in my opinion. Being able to lower my personal record to 15:04 at Footlocker Midwest and place 6th, was one of my greatest accomplishments. Up there with that, was winning a second State title and setting the State record at 15:16. After considering myself more of a track person the past couple years, proving myself on the XC course meant a lot. The State Meet experience and Footlocker experience have various similarities and differences. They are both similar because they involve bonding with others, whether it is with your teammates that make it to State with you or with new runners in your region and other regions at Footlocker. Travel is involved in both, also. Having to get comfortable in a new hotel room and with new foods adds to the experience; however, Footlocker is much farther away, presenting a time change, multiple nights in a hotel room, and many more meals not a part of your routine. Footlocker is also different because you get to know your competition and bond with them for two whole days before the race (adding a whole new dimension to the mental side of things), whereas at State, you just show up and race athletes you haven’t had a chance to meet. Individually, Footlocker was more intimidating for me because the runners were from all over the country and extremely elite. In the end, running in any championship cross country race, whether it be Footlocker or State, is valuable to a high school XC athlete and should be cherished.
