State Champion spotlight: Tia Tardy Mattanawcook Academy

State Champion spotlight: Tia Tardy Mattanawcook Academy

Sophomore Tia Tardy had quite a first indoor season as she captured both the Class B 800m & 2 Mile titles. Tardy who qualified in 6 different events for the state meet is one of the state's best young athletes. We caught up with Tia to ask her about her preparation before the meet, her mindset on race day, and about winning 2 individual titles.


What were your preparations leading up to the state meet?

I knew at the conclusion of the XC season, that I would have to train harder and smarter if I was going to continue to be competitive at these higher levels. At the urging and encouragement from some well respected coaches and others across the state, I sought out training help from a family member who is also a competitive distance runner himself.

How did you deal with the pressure and emotions that come along with competing in a state meet?

My personal trainer quickly recognized the importance of helping me mature as a runner, both in mind and spirit. So because of our shared belief in values and personal goals, I have been able to grow as a runner emotionally. That doesn't mean that I do not get nervous, but I have just learned to channel it better. So going into this state meet I just took things in stride, and trusted what would be, would be.

How did you feel after the 2 individual state titles, did winning the 800m first help with the 2 mile victory?

Earning a state title in any event is an awesome experience for anyone, but the highlight for me was when Kate Hall and her dad approached me after the meet, and congratulated me and encouraged me with advice and recommendations. She is such an inspiring athlete. Winning any race is a confidence builder, however they are two different races in which you can encounter different runners, therefore, I approached both of the races individually.

Coming into the season what were your goals and did you achieve them?

My goals were pretty simple. I needed to establish my strengths and weaknesses, and improve upon my weaknesses. I wanted to see how many different events I could qualify for states in. I qualified in 7 events including the 4x2 relay. It was more than I had expected to do, but it was fun to obtain.

How do you think winning two individual state title will effect you heading into outdoors?

It has definitely given me a confidence boost, but Outdoor is a new season and everyone there is on a path to personal success also. I will go into it fresh and aware that it is always anyone's race to win any given day. I try not to take anything for granted. For me, running is fun and relaxing. It is important for me to keep that perspective and joy- which is why my personal trainer, a friend, and I have started the Lincoln Lakes running club, through the local recreational department. I hope that the excitement of having other local runners/walkers of all ages will spur me on into the outdoor season, and beyond.

I would also like to include that my success is not mine alone- I have had tremendous encouragement and support from other athletes, friends, family, and my community. The value in perfect strangers becoming friends to support, encourage, advocate, and even pray for a student/athlete, has been a gift I will never forget. You all know who you are, and I love you all dearly.


Tardy's 800m Progression

800 Meter Run

  • 2015 Indoor 2:19.08
  • 2014 Outdoor 2:24.12


2014-15 Season Results

2:19.081st
2015-02-16Class B Indoor State Championship
2:23.481st
2015-02-07EMITL Championship
2:21.931st
2015-01-03EMITL: BRW, BUC, ELL, HAM, MAT, ORO, SUM
2:23.791st
2014-12-20EMITL: BAN, BUC, FOX, HAM, MAT, OT