Lauren Dolak of Austintown Fitch High School enjoys competing in team relay events.
Lauren Dolak participates in a number of running distances for Austintown Fitch High School and she recently competed at the OATCCC Indoor State Championship in Akron. Lauren was kind enough to agree to take part in our ongoing 'Getting to Know' series and below you can learn about her previous experiences within track and what she's looking forward to during the outdoor season.
MileSplit Ohio: Describe your indoor season. Did your results live up to your expectations going in? What are you most proud of from what you accomplished and was there anything that you felt could have gone better?
Lauren: My indoor season was not exactly what I was expecting. I was hoping for a faster indoor P.R. in the 800m this past season, but I'm happy that I was able to place at the OATCCC Indoor State Championship. Overall, I think I could have executed my races more effectively.
MileSplit Ohio: What events will you be focusing on during the outdoor season? What goals do you hope to accomplish over the next few months?
Lauren: For the outdoor season, I will be focusing on the 800m. I hope to run a P.R. and place higher at the state meet than I did last outdoor season. I also hope to bring my 400m and 1600m times down, as well. Another one of my goals this season is to be able to qualify for state meet in the 4 x 400 meter relay with my teammates.
Lauren Dolak hopes to establish new P.R.'s in the 400m, 800m and 1600m distances.
MileSplit Ohio: Describe what your typical week of training resembles. Who are your key training partners and do you have a favorite workout that you rely on leading up to an important race?
Lauren: My typical week of training has been consisting of about two speed workouts with several easy runs and one long run per week. My key training partners are my coaches and teammates, specifically the boys distance team at my school (Austintown Fitch High School). I don't have a particular workout that I rely on before an important race.
MileSplit Ohio: Who has helped you to reach the level that you've attained to this point in your track and field career?
Lauren: I have been very fortunate to have had the same coach, Bob Lape, throughout my entire 5 years of running. He knows my strengths and my weaknesses when it comes to preparing for my races. Without him, I wouldn't have been given all of the opportunities that running has brought to me. In addition to my coach, my parents have also helped me to reach the level that I have achieved. I'm very grateful to know that I have their support in everything that I do.
MileSplit Ohio: What are your long-term goals related to track and field?
Lauren: In the future, I hope to be able to run in college at a school that will challenge me. My ultimate goal is to be capable of reaching my full potential.
Lauren Dolak credits her coach as well as a strong support system at home for her success.
Lauren Dolak of Austintown Fitch High School enjoys competing in team relay events. 