Barris

1. In general, what do you enjoy most about running?

BB: I love the competition that is involved with running, whether it is with yourself or other teams. It is a pure sport. It is your own individual effort that determines your peak of success.

2. What is the philosophy behind your school's training program and your won individual training?

BB: Our team's philosophy is to start out easier and create a strong base, and gradually work up to your highest potential. Your hard work takes you where you want to go. I personally push myself to work harder everday, whether we are doing a workout or a road run. I have a certain pace that I stick to that matches my results from a 10 minute test we ran. My philosophy is: "Whatever doesn't kill me only makes me stronger."

3. Last Cross Country season you ran a great race at Districts to finish 3rd, but failed to qualify to state from Regionals. What happened at the Regional race?

BB: Let's just say that you should always triple knot your spikes before a big race! I think a lot of regionals was a mental game that I didn't play very well. I think it was the realization that I had to beat so many girls at my ability to make it to state. It is very nerve wracking to stand on the line with girls of that ability, especially as an underclassman. I am looking forward to this year (track season), after having a few races under my belt.

4. Have you changed your training to assure that it does not happen again?

BB: I haven't really trained differently. I just do a few different workouts. I think if anything, the way I think has changed dramatically. I realized I have to work a lot harder to accomplish my goals and dreams.

5. What are your goals for this track season?

BB: 800-2:20 1600-5:05 3200-sub 11:00. One of my main goals is to make it to State in the 3200 and in the 4x800 relay.

6. What are your long-term running goals?

BB: I would like to attend a private college on a running scholarship.

7. What are some of your interests outside running?

BB: I play boys hockey and am currently playing on a girls' select hockey team that travels to Canada, Connecticut, and Michigan on weekends.

8. If you could go on a run with anyone in the world (pastor present), who would it be?

BB: Amy McKinley. She has veen one of my "running idols" for a long while. I hear stories and see pictures of her everyday!

9. Any advice or tips to share with otehr prep runners?

BB: I'd tell other runners to always work hard and NEVER EVER give up. Just because you may not be the best runner now, doesn't mean you can't be great in the future. You have to believe in yourself and live your dreams. And don't let one or two bad races get you down. I've had many of them and use them to make me stronger. Don't be afraid to challenge yourself sometimes. "Everyone wants to go to heaven, but no one is willing to die to get there...SO DIG ME A HOLE!"

**My thanks to Brittnee Barris for this absolutely fantastic interview! I don't know about you, but it sure inspired me! Good Luck Brittnee!!