We chatted with Marquette freshman, Hannah Pierson. Pierson came into the track season with PRs of 2:26/5:20/10:40 (3K). In her first track meet of her freshman year, she ran 5:21.80 to place fourth and came back shortly after to win the 800m in 2:25.59. This past fall Pierson was the seventh freshman to cross the line at the Missouri State Meet in Class 4. She ran a personal best of 19:21 at the Forest Park XC Festival where she placed 24th in the green race.
MoMileSplit: What were your goals headed into the meet?
Hannah Pierson: My main goal was to create a baseline from my off season training.
MoMileSplit: What was your plan for the mile?
Hannah Pierson: My plan was to run to my strengths-keeping a steady pace, having quick turn over, and a strong finishing kick.
MoMileSplit: How did the race play out?
Hannah Pierson: This was an exciting race for all competitors. We pushed each other to the end. We started from a water fall formation, and we did not cut over till 150m mark. From there, we stayed in a pack at a steady pace. As the race neared the end, there was more passing and runners threw in their finishing kicks.
MoMileSplit: How much time was between the 1600m and 800m? What did you during this time?
Hannah Pierson: There was not much time in between races-only 20 minutes. During this time, I stayed hydrated and relaxed by going through my stretching routine. I tried to not let my nerves build up, and focus on the task ahead.
MoMileSplit: Did you think that you could win the 800m after running the 1600m?
Hannah Pierson: I knew there was tough competition so I did not expect to win- I surprised myself. The competition pushed me through it.
MoMileSplit: When did you make your move to the front?
Hannah Pierson: The other runners helped me keep on pace but I made my move from 400m out in the race. From here, I had a burst of adrenaline, and I threw in my kick to have a strong finish.
MoMileSplit: What is your plan for the rest of the indoor season? Where will you race next?
Hannah Pierson: My next race is the USA Cross Country meet at Forest park on February 2nd. I will be competing in 4k for the high school division . After that, my last indoor meet is the Big River Championship hosted by Missouri track and field on February 16th. I'll be running in the 1600m and the 800m.
MoMileSplit: What are your goals for the outdoor season?
Hannah Pierson: My goals for track is to improve on my off season baseline times and lower my P.R's. As part of my off season preparation, I have focused on a more efficient running technique. This spring, I expect tough competition in my conference, district, and sectional. I'm sure it will make me a better runner.
