XC Watchlist: Grace Reynolds (York HS)

Tell us how your summer training is going?

My summer training has, unfortunately, been mostly cross-training, not running. Back in April, I was having pain in my right tibia, and a MRI revealed that I had a tibia stress fracture. The recovery time for the injury is normally around 20 weeks with no running. Therefore, I have spent most of my summer in the pool and on the bike cross-training. Although these things have been going very well, I am so excited to be back running again!

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

Since I have dealt with an injury all summer, one of my main goals is to just have a full, injury-free season. However, my more race-oriented goals are to improve my place at the state championships (I was 8th in Class B last year) and run a best time!

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

I didn't start running until I was about 12 or 13 years old. I have always been a competitive swimmer, and, as part of cross-training for swimming, we would run. As I started running more, I just kind of fell in love with it. I then decided to run more on my own but continued to focus on my swimming. It has only been the last few years that I have really started to focus on my running.

What's a typical training week like?

In cross-country season, every week typically includes a long run, work on the track/speed intervals of some sort, and hills. Then, the other runs are built around these (easy runs, runs with pickups, etc.). Since I have struggled with injuries in the past, normally I cross-train (swim or bike) at least one day a week. I think this cross-training is really important because it allows me to keep my fitness up but with a non-impact activity.

What is your favorite workout?

My favorite workout is probably is probably a lengthier fartlek run with tempo intervals. I love the challenge of these kinds of workouts where I am trying to hold a challenging pace for a long time. The longer the run, the better (in my opinion).

What is your favorite course to run in Maine?

I really like Belfast. It always seems like there is so much energy in the air when I race there, and I also like the variation in terrain throughout the course.

What is the toughest course to run in Maine?

I would probably say the Twin Brook course as I think the slight uphill start is challenging and then the rolling hills throughout the race take a lot out of your legs.

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

I would say placing 8th at the state championships or qualifying for the New England championship last year are the two accomplishments that stand out for cross-country. I also did a half-marathon this past December and finished as one of the top 3 overall women with a time of 1:27.42 (6:42 pace), so I was really happy with that!

What do you love most about running?

I love the feeling of accomplishment and focus I get from running and doing hard workouts. I also love that the lessons I have learned from running (i.e. working hard, time management, etc.) can also be applied to so many other areas of my life! Lastly, I love the people I have met through running and the bonds made with my team!

When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?

In addition to being a runner, I have also been doing triathlons (a race consisting of swimming, biking, and running) since I was 13. I love doing triathlons because they allow me to race but focus on different details than I would in just a running. I also really like hiking, traveling with my family, and, admittedly, doing schoolwork!

Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?

I am not very ritualistic when it comes to pre-race routines, so I don't really have any to share. I just try and make sure I am both mentally and physically prepared for the day, and, since every race is different, I think my preparation for every race is a tad different (but no big changes i.e. same breakfast, same shoes, etc.).

Favorite quote?

I love quotes so much, so it is so hard to pick just one! Two of my favorites are: "If you only walk on sunny days you'll never reach your destination" and "Be someone who makes everyone feel like someone."

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

Honestly, I can't remember the last full movie I saw. I am more of a TED talk/TV show/YouTube person.

What shoes do you race/train in?

I train in and love my Newton Kismet II shoes! However, my spikes are New Balance.

What professional athlete would you most like to meet?

I would love to meet the marathoner Shalane Flanagan. I look up to her as an extraordinary strong runner and a positive role-model due to the way she handles herself in public dealing with the inevitable ups-and-downs of being a competitive runner.

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

I want to be an emergency medicine (Emergency room) doctor when I am older. I love science, am pretty calm under pressure, and can't imagine having a boring or "desk job," so I feel this career would fit me well!

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

A helicopter (to be able to go somewhere and get supplies), blankets (because I am always cold), and my cat (because I get lonely).

• 800m - 2:51.30
• 1600m - 5:49.70
• 3200m - 13:00.00
• 3 Mile (xc) - 20:01.00
• 5K (xc) - 19:36.00