XC Watchlist: Anna Slager Gorham HS

<p> Each week this XC season we will have our &quot;Watchlist&quot; of the top 15 individuals for both boys &amp; girls. Additionally we will have interviews with any new athletes that break into the top 15.</p>

XC Watchlist: Anna Slager - Gorham HS

Athlete Name: Anna Slager

School: Gorham HS

Year of Graduation: 2018

2013 State Meet Finish: DNC

 

Tell us how your summer training went?
 
My summer training went really well. I ran with my mom a lot, and had a really great time bonding with my XC team when preseason started. I enjoyed getting back to basics with longer runs, no headphones, no watch, just enjoying the moment. I love the combination of XC as team sport with individual effort.

What are your goals for the upcoming season?
 
My goal for the season is to break 19:30 for a 5k.
 

You've raced twice so far this fall, and won both times, as a freshman what does it mean to be crossing the line first?

As a freshman, it means that I am still young and get to run for Gorham for another 3 years. I have much to improve upon and am excited to become the best runner I can be.
 

What has been the biggest transition from middle school to high school XC?
 
The biggest transition between high school and middle school has been the intensity. I love it, but by the end of the week I am very tired.

How long have you been running and how did you get started?
 
This will be my 4th cross country season. I started in 6th grade, when in the fall all I could do for a sport through the school was cross country. I didn't love running then, it was just a way hang out with friends and get some exercise.
 
What shoes do you train in?
 
The shoes I am currently training in are Mizuno Wave Rider, am I just switched out of a pair of New Balance REVlite. I liked both brands a lot.

What shoes do you race in?
 
I run in New Balance XC900 Spikes.

Favorite Post-race Meal?
 
I am not one of those athletes that has their post/pre race meals planned out exactly, but generally I eat a lot of pretzels and sandwich or salad after a meet.  I love hummus!

Flat course or hills?
 
I love the challenge that hills add to a race, they make it exciting.
 

Facebook , Instagram or Twitter?

I don't particularly like any of the three, but I do have an Instagram.

Favorite song at the moment?

"Rather Be" by Clean Bandit.

What professional athlete would you most like to meet?

That is a tough question. I have four women athletes I would love to meet: Genzebe Dibaba, Mary Cain, Abbey Leonardi, and Allyson Felix.  They are great competitors and leaders!

 

 

More on Slager

Milesplit Profile

 

Personal Bests

  • 1,600 Meter Run5:32.52
  • 5,000 Meter Run20:10.00