State Champion spotlight: Emily Turner Cheverus HS

State Champion spotlight: Emily Turner Cheverus HS

Cheverus Junior Emily Turner pulled off the upset win in the 400m race at the Class A State Championship as she took down all-time record holder Elisabeth Redwood, with a new personal best of 58.47. Turner would go on to finish as the runner-up in the 200m as well. We caught up with her to ask her about her preparations, her goals for the season &  what she thought about when she won title.

What were your preparations leading up to the state meet?

Leading up to the state meet and throughout the season my coach and I designed workouts to focus not only on speed but distance, endurance, etc. That way I (and my teammates) can peak at the right times ( Southwesterns & States).

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

I get very nervous, but I try to remain calm and focused. I try to use the nervous energy to my benefit and not let it consume me.  I do this by listening to music and staying loose before and between races/events.

You came in seeded #2 in the 400m, and ended up finishing first. Was the win a surprise in the 400m, considering you were up against the fastest 400m runner in state history? What was the first thought that came to you when you crossed the line first?

The win was more exciting than surprising.  I had raced Elizabeth Redwood before and I had been training all season for this race.  On that final turn, I was close enough that I knew I could win.  At the finish I only felt pure exhilaration.

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

My biggest goals were to run sub 60 in the 400m, and hopefully make the podium in the 400m, 200m and long jump.

Now that you have won an individual state title, how do you think that will help you during the outdoor season?? What are your goals for the outdoor season?

 I will definitely be more confident going into the outdoor season, but I will not underestimate any of my opponents.  My goals are to shave another second or two off my outdoor 400m, more time off my 200 time and set new PR's in the long jump, hurdles and 100m.