XC Watchlist: Hannah Steelman Orono HS

XC 2015 Preview

Derek Veilleux

Sep 14, 2015

<p> Check out our 2015 Maine XC previews as we prepare for the upconing season</p>

XC Watchlist: Hannah Steelman

Athlete Name: Hannah Steelman

School: Orono HS

Year of Graduation: 2017

2014 State Meet Finish: Class C Individual Champion 19:16.99

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I have been running for 8 years now. It all started with my dad signing my brother and I up for 1 mile run/walk fundraisers at the local track. Those races would pave the way for 5k and 10k road races.

Do you remember your first real race?

I believe my first real race that I ran competitively in was my first middle school cross country meet. That was in 2010, and I am almost positive I got 3rd place.

How is your summer training going?

My summer training has gone very well! Our team gathered for runs every Tuesday and Thursday evening, and during the blackout period, just us athletes would organize group runs every weekday at around 4:30. On the days when there weren't group runs, I would run either on my own, or with some friends. Kassidy Dill and I run together most often. I did some speed work, and I ran a 5k road race.

What is your favorite workout?

My favorite workout would have to be the mile trial that we do on the trails. Its tough but you always feel great afterwards.

Which meets will you be running in this year?

I plan to compete in most, if not all of the meets this year. The goal is to compete at New Englands for my third year.

Do you have a favorite course? What do you think is the toughest course in the state?

My favorite course is Belfast. I always seem to compete well there and its such as fast course. There are so many races that I have run there that will always be near and dear to my heart. Ellsworth is a pretty tough course. The giant hill that you run not only once, but twice, really makes it challenging.

Out of all your running accomplishments so far, which stands out the most?

Getting second at the Festival of Champions last year and being the first Maine female finisher. I got my PR of 19:03 that race, and I surprised so many people, including myself. Winning states is right up with that race, though.

What are your goals for the upcoming cross country season?

I most definitely want to PR, and eventually break 18:50.

What do you love most about running?

The feeling of accomplishment. Whether it be after workout during practice or a race. The feeling when cross the finish line and you're breathing so heavily and dripping in sweat. Knowing that you worked your hardest is such a good feeling.

Finish the sentence Hannah Steelman is.... excited to run!

Do you have a favorite quote?

My favorite quote happens to be a Bible verse--Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?

Just before the start of each race, Coach White gets out the bag that holds the "lucky penny", and we each hold it for a bit. After that, we do a run-out, followed by a team huddle filled with words of encouragement.

What is your favorite food?

I'm a big fan of chocolate chip Clif Bars.

What was the last movie you saw and what did you think of it?

A few of my teammates and I went to the Bangor Drive-In and saw Grease. I will always and forever love that movie.