Photos courtesy of Mike Nie (Track) and Jim Findlay (Cross Country)
Lebanon's Jacquelyn Crow had a stellar freshman season placing 20th at Foot Locker Midwest and second in the 3200 meters at the OHSAA State Championships. Crow talks about her recent success, what she's been doing to have an even better sophomore year, her favorite running brand, and much more in this cross country Q&A.
How'd you get started in track and cross country?
In 6th grade we had to run the mile in gym class. I was running pretty well and all my class mates and the gym teacher were cheering me on because I was close to the school record. I couldn’t feel my legs after the race, but I did get the record. In 7th grade, I picked up running cross country and track. I also played select soccer. It was kind of a crazy schedule and there were a couple of times I was ready to quit because it was too much. I‘m really glad my mom made me continue running. I have since quit playing soccer and focused all of my time to running and cross training.
Of the 146 girls who ran at states I counted 20 freshman including yourself. Only Rachel Bosworth of Coffman finished higher (10th). It might not have been as high of a finish as you wanted (33rd) but you still have to be pleased ?
As a freshman making it to state is huge. Honestly, I was just glad I didn’t come in last place. I got tripped, fell, got stepped on and spiked by another runner. I also ran in to a couple of barrels and poles when I was trying to make a move. I thought 33rd was pretty good. It was definitely a learning experience!
Then you get to compete in Foot Locker Regionals. What was that experience like for you?
Training for Footlocker was hard because none of my teammates chose to run this event and I found that I enjoyed working out with my teammates a lot more that by myself. It’s hard to stay motivated when someone isn’t there to push you; however, the Foot Locker race was a lot of fun once I stopped being stressed and learned to enjoy the race. The competition and the course was a little intimidating. Everyone was so fast (a lot of the girls ran the course in sub 18 minutes) and the course was difficult because it is extremely hilly. The first ½ mile was all uphill! Overall, I learned that when I relax and have fun in a race, I can still have success.
What did your summer training consist of?
My summer training has been running between 30 to 40 miles a week plus cross training (swimming, bicycling, etc). Also a lot of my teammates and I went to an athletes in action camp, called TUFF Camp, up in Michigan. It was so much fun. Every morning we had TAWG (Time alone with God) and we read our Bibles. This was cool because part of running is spiritual for me. We also went for long runs on some beautiful trails and then ended up at the beach where we could just hang out with friends old and new. Lots of friendships were created and I still keep in touch with them even though we may run for different teams. My favorite part was the beach cookout and the initiation ceremony for the runners that were new to the camp.
How is the team looking so far?
Lebanon’s girls team has some amazing runners and it was just unfortunate the team didn’t make state last year. We hope to have a great season and finish strong at states even though our region is really tough. All of the girls on the team work extremely hard and always give 110% - not because of me but because of who they are. Everyone on the team cheers and encourages each other which helps keep unity on the team (Ubuntu!!). I wouldn’t be at the level I am without the strength and support of the entire team. They are truly amazing both on and off the course.
What is your ideal course?
The perfect cross country course for me is probably mostly flat with a few hills. I do enjoy running through the woods though.
Do you have a song that pumps you up or gets you ready for a race?
No because I try to stay focused and calm before the race. Even though must runners do listen to their music to stay calm, I feel a lot better without it.
What is your running brand of choice?
Saucony.
Are there any quotes or words of inspiration you live by?
"You never achieve success unless you like what you are doing," by Dale Carnegie. You will never put as much effort into something you hate doing. You have to enjoy it.
What big meets are you looking forward to this season?
I am looking forward to Tiffin because it is a big meet and lots of competitive runners will be there to push the pace.
More on Jacquelyn (Athlete Profile)