Follow senior Aleta Looker of Ellsworth during her season xc season. Looker finished 9th in the Class B meet a year ago, & 41st in the New England Championship. She is known for her 800m prowess on the track where she's run the #2 outdoor 800m in Maine hostory, 2:14.30.
Hey there everybody, It's that time of year again! Hopefully the summertime has been restful and entertaining for all - can't believe it's already almost time for school! The past few months stand out as some of my most adventurous as an athlete.
Before summer even started I was honored with an invitation to compete for Team NSAF at the Caribbean Scholastic Invitational in Carolina, Puerto Rico! Unfortunately this meet occurred on the same day as the Outdoor Track New England Championship. The choice to miss it was difficult, but the new experience was unforgettable - probably the best running trip that I've ever taken! My overall perspective on life in general and attitude towards the sport of running was ultimately improved. Missing the last few days of school, I hopped back onto a plane and flew to the New Balance Outdoor Nationals to compete in the Championship 800 meter event. The race itself wasn't spectacular, but one of the most meaningful pieces of influential advice that I learned throughout my travels is that you have to give yourself a shot - be confident! I can't fully express how much I urge anyone to seize the opportunities they discover. If nothing else, adventures will serve as valuable learning experiences to help you grow as an individual and prepare for the next level as an athlete. Let me officially thank everyone for that chance; especially my supportive family members and friends!
The next few weeks were spent enjoying the Open New England Championship meet and the Twilight Throwers Ultra Weight competition with my wonderful "track family!" Again, I encourage everyone to slow down once in awhile to be inspired by the true sport that is Track & Field - appreciate how people of all ages can test their mental strength and physical potential: putting mind over matter and achieving greatness! Besides, it isn't everyday that one gets to chuck around huge 300 pound weights then savor the icecreamy goodness that is the impressive Kimball's Farm special (seriously look them up if you're ever around southern Massachusetts looking for a treat!).
After a little cross-training up Mt. Katahdin in the pouring rain accompanied by my lovely Aunt & the best twin brother ever (love you Bobbeh smooove!), it was great to build more memories (oink oink!) at the Acadian Running Camp. Being able to bond and train with athletes from all over the state in a relaxed setting is truly amazing. I'm sure many other campers agree that the epic amount of Chinese food and highly insightful staff make the whole event an absolute blast! (Shout out to Team D!!!)
Now that preseason is here, I wish everyone the best. Be careful, be consistent, and don't hesitate to set goals! Before we know it all the team dinners, mud baths, tie-dying shirt parties, and short shorts will be in the past. Summer training totally increased and for once I don't wish for Indoor track immediately! GET AFTER IT ~Aleta Looker
