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Name: Anna Martin
School: Lehi
- What was your most memorable race/throw/jump/vault/moment?
My most memorable race was probably cross country state my junior year! I had come in second at state the year before, so I was really nervous and excited to come back and go for the win. It was the BEST feeling to cross the line and know I had achieved my goal, and I was in shock when I learned I had broken the state record!
- Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
I have been able to compete with amazing girls every year, and I have loved getting to race with them because they are awesome! Specifically Alissa Fielding, Mimi Miyazawa, Carlee Hansen, Morgan Jensen, Jessica Hill, Heidi Sumsion, and more:)
- What was your greatest accomplishment?
I would say one of my greatest accomplishments would be getting to Footlocker Nationals my senior year after all of my struggles with injury. It meant a lot to be able to compete for my senior cross country season despite the injuries I had dealt with throughout the past year.
- If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I don't think I would change anything! Even though my injuries were very hard for me, I learned a lot from them, and they made me a better person and runner. I also had such a great experience with my team every year. Having a small team is so much fun because you become really close with everyone, and I've made so many amazing memories.
- What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Definitely my issues with plantar fasciitis, runner's knee, and IT band tightness.
- What will you miss the most?
I'm really going to miss summer practices and cross country camp! Those have been some of my favorite times ever and I'm gonna miss those days with my teammates and coaches. I'm excited to make new memories next year though :)
- What advice would you give to younger athletes?
I would say to never put limits on yourself and to always believe you can surprise even yourself with your own potential! Your goals are never out of your reach if you are willing to face your fears for them.
- What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coach has had such a big impact on my high school cross country experience. He was always aware of my training, my next race, where I was at with my goals, and where I was going to be even when I wasn't thinking that far ahead. He always encouraged me to push myself not just to become a better runner but to become a better person in the process. He believed in me no matter how annoyed he was that I had gotten hurt again haha. I am so grateful to have had such a good coach to get me where I am today.
- What are your college plans?
I am signed with BYU and I am so excited to get to be a part of such an amazing team!
- Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
Definitely my parents for always being so supportive of me, for being interested in my everyday training as well as race days, and for always getting me what I needed to run this sport. I am also super thankful for my brother Tyler who does all of this with me! And of course my teammates, especially Abby Gray and Luke Howell for every run and workout and for being my best friends.
