Future Stars: Hailey Applebee (Windham HS)

Windham's Hailey Applebee is off to a great start during her rookie campaign. She won the freshman race at the SMAA relays & then followed that up with a new course record at Marshwood last Friday.


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

I have been running since my 5th grade year. I joined the Raymond Roadrunners cross country team because it was the only sport available to 5th graders, and I wanted to try something new. 

Do you remember your first real race?

Yes I do. My first real race was in 5th grade. It was my first time running competitively, and I was definitely not prepared. The race was a two mile course at North Yarmouth and I placed third. From there I was hooked and continued to run all through middle school, and now for the Windham Eagles XC Team.

How is your summer training going?

My summer training went really well. Most of my training was with my team at their annual XC "In Pursuit" Summer Camp, but I also attended two running camps, Acadian Running Camp and Slovenski Camps. I did about 30 miles a week slowly increasing my mileage through the summer. Cross training was also an important part of my training, doing activities such as aqua jogging, biking, swimming, circuits, etc... 

What is your favorite workout? 

My favorite workout has to be mile repeats. I know that sounds crazy, but I feel it really helps me learn to acheive negative splits in my races. 

Which meets will you be running in this year?

I will be running in most the SMAA conference meets, as well as The Festival of Champions. I hope to get the opportunity to race in regionals at Twin Brook and hopefully get to run at Belfast again for states.

Do you have a favorite course? 

Since I am a freshman I have not run many races yet, however I really enjoyed racing at Twin Brook in Middle School.

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

My biggest accomplishment so far is breaking the home course record in middle school. It was a goal I set for myself in 5th grade and it took me all four years to accomplish it. 

What are your goals for the upcoming cross country season?

The one thing I want most is to make it to states as a team. My personal goals would be to break 20 minutes and remain healthy through the season. 

What do you love most about running?

For me, running provides a stress relief and keeps me healthy. Completing a run makes me feel happy and more energized for the day. I also love the sportsmanship in the running community and how easy it is to make friends from different teams. Its cool to meet new people who are also passionate about the sport. I also love bonding with my team at weekly team dinners.

Do you have a favorite quote?

"Don't ask me why I run, ask yourself why you don't"

Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?

I really just try my best to stay calm and not get anxious about my race. Sometimes I listen to music to block out what's going on around to focus on myself. 

What is your favorite food?


Does chocolate milk count? Because I drink a lot of chocolate milk.

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

I watched The Purge at a friends house and it was...... lets say, interesting.

What brand of shoes do you train/race in?

I train in Saucony Guide 9 and Omni 14. I race in Saucony Havok spikes.

What professional athlete would you like to meet the most?


Although I enjoy running, swimming was definitely something to watch at the Olympics this year. I think it would be really cool to meet Michael Phelps or Katie Ledecky.

What is something most people don't know about you? 

I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in 2014. I had it for about six months before getting treatment. It was definitely a hard challenge to overcome and I learned a lot about the disease. It had an impact on my sports, as it was really hard for me to get back to the place I was physically and mentally before Lyme. I wasn't able to do any physical activity for a month and it really set me back. Luckily I was able to get back to full health and start doing what I love again. 

Lastly, if you were stranded on an island with three things what would they be?

Definitely need my running shoes, chocolate milk, and music.

Applebee's Milesplit Profile