Missouri MileSplit coverage of track and field continues long after the state meet. In addition to providing post season on site meet coverage the site will be featuring athlete profiles. Up first is the super sophomore from Class 1 Alexa Taff, who took home 4 golds this year.
Missouri MileSplit: Alexa, wow 4 gold medals. You went into this year's meet with the top times in the 100, 200, 400, and 4x2 did you feel any pressure to win all 4 events?
Alexa: I came into season wanting to defend my titles, and seeing I had the best times going into the state meet was very encouraging. I felt very confident in the 100 and 200 but the 400 always makes me nervous, as for the 4x2 there is always more pressure because of handoffs.
Missouri MileSplit: Is there a distance or race you most enjoy?
Alexa: really enjoy the 200 because it's a distance that allows me to get up to speed and maintain that speed the whole way. As for the 400, I feel like I'm still working on being able to maintain my speed the whole way. My goal is to be able to maintain my speed in the 400 the whole distance and run somewhere in the 56's.
Missouri MileSplit: St. Joseph Christian’s 4x2 team has also won back to back state championships tell us about your team?
Alexa: I love my 4x2 teammates. They make running so much more fun and being on top of the podium with them is the best feeling of all. Freshman Emily King runs the first leg and has done such a good job at handling the pressure of starting. Junior Hannah Morrey runs second and is so dedicated to running and training extra hard to be able to win. Sophomore Courtlin Osborn always runs the corner really strong and seems to fly down the back straight away.
Missouri MileSplit: What other sports are you involved in?
Alexa: I also play basketball, which is my favorite sport. Being only 5'4, makes basketball kind of a tough fit. I seem to train really hard for basketball and track seems to come more naturally for me. Good thing I'm only a sophomore!
Missouri MileSplit: I know you're only a sophomore but do you plan to run in college?
Alexa: I'm not really to sure yet, it may be something I consider when the time comes.
Missouri MileSplit: Any advice for new runners?
Alexa: Go the extra mile, it really pays off! It's going to hurt at some point, but being able to push through the pain to the next level is worth it in the end. Also, make sure you have a good pair of training shoes and racing shoes, you wouldn't want a stress fracture like i had my freshman year!
Missouri MileSplit: You were injured last year, was there any effect this year?
Alexa: Last year, having a stress fracture in my foot helped me decide not to run the 400 at the state meet. Thankfully this year I wasn't injured and was able to run the 400. Not being able to run last year really made me want to come out this year and give it all I had and try to win the 400. God has given me the ability to run and has blessed me so much.
Congratulations Alexa on a fantastic season.