Sarah Tole won the 7A AHSAA Cross Country Championship in 18:02. The 8th grader ran away with the race and it's safe to say she'll be here for a long time.
What were your goals entering the race, especially knowing the talent level in the field?
The Auburn High girls have been working so hard since the beginning of the season all the way to State. As a team, we have had many obstacles that were in the way of us getting where we hoped to be. However, that didn't change our mindset, it just made us work harder. Going into the race, I knew how many talented people were going to be competing. My goal wasn't planned out to win or get a specific time. My goal was to run my race and run for those who weren't able to run theirs.
Did you think 18:02 was possible having not run near that all season?
If I was told at the beginning of the season that I would be running 18:02 I would be amazed. Iworked hard and pushed myself past my limit and it all paid off.
What got you into running?
My mom has always been a big runner and so has my sister. I looked up to both of them and they believed in me. My sister has pushed me to become the runner I am today. I wouldn't be this far if it wasn't for them.
What's your favorite shoe to run in?
While racing, I like to wear my Nike Dragonfly spikes.
Do you play any other sports?
Growing up, I've tried a variety of sports. I've always done soccer since a young age and I've stuck with it ever since. I try to balance out running and soccer the best I can and I hope it works out in the end.
What's the best workout you've ever done?
During cross country season we have had many difficult workouts. I've always enjoyed the shorter distance workouts over the longer distance.
What's your pre-race routine?
The night before the race I try to get good sleep and drink lots of water. In the morning, I eat a healthy breakfast and try to wake up some more. Once at the course, we go on an easy warm up and we make sure to stretch.
What's your favorite cheat meal?
I try to be healthy but I always tend to switch it up when it comes to pizza.
How did you celebrate a State Championship?
After the raced I celebrated by getting a funnel cake and fried Oreos. After that I went home and got some rest.
What's your favorite movie?
I don't have a favorite movie but I'm always interested in action movies.
What's your favorite subject in school?
My favorite subject in school is math.
If you could go to any time period in history, where would you go?
If I could go back to any time period, I would go back to the 1980s. Even though I was not there to experience it, I've heard about it. The clothes, movies, and games seem exciting and colorful.
What's a few long term goals you have for your running career?
In the future I hope I will still be running. A long term goal I have for myself is to push myself and show others that it is possible.
