Througout the 2012 XC season MoMileSplit will bring you Snapshots - A quick look at an athlete via photos and Q&A.
Kaitlyn you ran some great races over the summer. How much confidence did that give you going into this season?
I came into this summer with a little different mindset than usual. My training was more relaxed and more focused on the fact that if I wanted to be better I should try to start negative splitting. I've worked on it all summer and when I raced those times it payed off and made me feel better about this season. So yes I gained some good confidence.
Forest Park. WOW - Tell us about the pace and the race against Emily and Hannah?
Wow is an understatement. Haha I knew that coming into the race I had a chance in the top 3 or 4 and my initial plan was to try and compete with Hannah as best as I could. When the gun went off I had myself in a good place because my box was right next to Hannah's. We went out together and Taylor was right there. I knew she would be there but I never figured she would hold it because she's so young and I didn't really know what she could do. Our first two miles were faster then I've ever went in splits and that's when they pulled away. Taylor and Hannah are amazing athletes and I'm just thankful I got under that 18min mark.
This is you senior year of a great high school career . What's left to accomplish?
For me, I just want to continue improving and racing smarter. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season and I am hoping it will carry me To the state meet successfully. I also want to place well at post season races.
Where do you race next?
My next race will be at the Southern Stampede in Joplin