Athlete Spotlight: Harley Taylor (Cedar)

Harley Taylor a senior out of Cedar has already punched her ticket to State by qualifying in the 1600m and 3200m.  This shouldn't come as a surprise seeing how she was a podium finisher in both of those events last year.  Taylor has run in three meets so far this season and has already bested her PR in the 800m running a 2:28.  


EventTime/MarkMeet/Year
800m2:28.84Snow Canyon Invitational (2019)
1600m5:08.21Utah State Track & Field Championships (2018)
3200m11:05.35Dixie Invitational (2018)
3 Mile17:02.50Region 9 Championships (2017)
5000m19:51.80Footlocker West Regional (2017)


How did you first get started running?

I've enjoyed running since I was in Kindergarten. My class ran laps around the track for P.E., and I absolutely loved it. I've loved running ever since.


Favorite Workout?

Probably 1000 meter intervals. They are a good balance between distance and speed, and I feel like I get more out of them than any other workout. 


Least Favorite Workout?

Mileage by itself. After a while, it gets super boring.


How do you personally prepare yourself mentally and physically for a race?

I hype myself up. I tell myself how much I love running, and how excited I am to race. I race better when I am excited than when I am nervous. Physically I run a mile beforehand and then do dynamic stretches with some strides. 


Pre Race superstition 

I don't have one now, but freshman and sophomore year I had to eat a Danish before every race.


Most memorable race?

The two mile at state sophomore year. It was the first time I felt fast, and I felt absolutely euphoric. That is the race that made me obsessed with running. I started training harder than ever before and really grew as a runner.


Where are you at on college decisions?

I have signed with Southern Utah University, and plan on training with them in the fall.


What are your top 3 goals you wish to accomplish this season?
1. I want to be tougher mentally during my races and feel like I have given it my all.
2. Sometimes I put a ton of pressure on myself, and I start to dread races. I want to work on having more fun when I am racing, and just enjoying the whole experience.
3. I want to be there for my teammates, and help them reach their goals in any way that I can. The girls in our distance squad are really great, and I want them to enjoy track, and be happy with how the season ends.