Athlete Name: Savannah Hartline
School: Section High School
What was your most memorable meet and why?
My most memorable meet was my last state track meet. I knew as I was running my final lap as a member of Section High School's track team that it would be the last time I would ever wear that uniform and those running shoes again so I gave it all I had. I set a personal record at this track meet, and that is a memory I will cherish forever.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
For me, track has always been more of a competition with myself rather than with another runner. I always tried to be better and faster in the next race, challenging myself to improve more. I faced my biggest competition every time I would run, whether it be at a meet or at practice.
Out of all your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most and why?
I was nominated as the Wendy's High School Heisman for my school. I felt a sense of pride within myself the day I was informed they had chosen me, and I still feel that way today. Being nominated for such a highly respected award made me feel that my hard work had not gone unnoticed, and that was the reassurance I needed to keep pursuing my goals.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
There aren't many things I would change about my running career because it will definitely be my favorite memory from high school. If I had to change one thing, though, I would train harder at every practice.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
I began running track in the seventh grade. Although I was young, I still competed with varsity level runners. This was challenging, and I often lost hope that I would never be good enough. I didn't give up, though. I worked twice as hard so I wouldn't be looked down on because of my young age and my inability to keep up with the older and more experienced runners. After a lot of dedication and determination, I was finally seen as equal and my youth did not affect my skills, as I kept up with the older runners.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss the fun times I had with my track team during all of our long days we spent together.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
I would tell younger athletes to always cheer for and encourage the other members of the track team, to put their differences behind them and get along with each other, and to never give up.
What are your post-high school or college plans?
After graduating high school, I plan to attend Northeast Alabama Community College where I will pursue an Associate's Degree in Business. After graduating from Northeast, I plan to transfer to Auburn University to pursue a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing.
Who would you like to say thank you to?
My Aunt, Tammy Stevens, who was also my track coach, because she always pushed me to do my best. No matter what race I ran, I knew I would always hear her voice yelling for me and encouraging me. I want to say thank you to my aunt for always believing in me and for always throwing me in any event she thought that I would be good at. I also would like to say thank you to my mom, Kristi Hartline, for never missing a track meet. Thank you for riding the bus every Saturday, after you worked all week, to support me at my track meets. None of my accomplishments would be possible without these two ladies.