We caught up with Lee's Summit Community Christian junior, Ashley Wolkomir last week at the Sherwood meet where she finished first over Midway's Mackenzie Weis. Ashley has one of the top times in class 2 this year after running a 19:01 at the KC Metro meet.
MoRunners: How did you first get into running? Who's been the biggest influence on your running up to this point?
Ashley Wolkomir (AW): I first got into running when I was chosen to be the representative in the 2004 torch run at Raytown South Middle School. Coach Nunn at Raytown South High has been my biggest running influence. Even though I don't attend there, I summer train with the team, and he's taught me everything I know.
MR: What is your favorite racing experience?
AW: Cross Country Nationals 2007 in Kentucky where I got to run with the Brocaw Blazers.
MR: Since your freshman year you've shown consistent improvement. What's been the key to improvement for you?
AW: Run . . . run . . . more running . . . and then run some more.
MR: How is your training different this fall compared to your sophomore and or freshman year?
AW: I'm increasing my mileage and varying my training.
MR: How's your team looking this season?
AW: Because we're a small school, it's hard to get students interested in cross country . . . there's only one other girl on the team . . . Lezlee Bramell who is a first time sophomore runner . . . but she's doing a great job.
MR: What are your short term goals in running? In season, and or post season meets?
AW: To drop under 19:00 and/or first at state Class 2. Post season I'm planning on running a couple of national races I would like to medal at.
MR: What are your long term goals for running?
AW: Olympics 2012!!! . . . maybe.
MR: What do you like to do in your free time when you aren't training, racing or studying?
AW: What free time? Maybe sleeping? I do love my church though.
morunners.com quick six:
MR: Favorite pre-race food?
AW: Bagel w/cream cheese
MR: Favorite movie?
AW: Shrek
MR: Favorite athlete?
AW: Jim Ryun
MR: Favorite band?
AW: Toby Mac
MR: Favorite pre-race song?
AW: Don't have one
MR: Name of racing spikes?
AW: Mizuno (purple) but my training shoes are Aasics and have been for the last several years.
MR: Thanks for a great interview, Ashley! We look forward to seeing your successes as the post season nears.