We are brining you another female distance standout from Sparkman High School in this edition of Senior Salute. Samantha Menikheim is a well rounded distance runner who will be joining RJ Torbor and others at South Alabama!
Interview with Samantha Menikheim of Sparkman High School.
Q: What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
A: Coffee
Q: Where are you planning to attend college? Or do you have other post high school plans?
A: South Alabama
Q: Do you plan to continue competing in track and field or cross country in college?
A: Yes
Q: What is your favorite event to compete in and why?
A: My favorite event changes to whatever I've PR'd in most recently.
Q: Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals or superstitions?
A: I always braid my hair for races, even when it should be too short to braid.
Q: Which track or cross country meet was your favorite and why?
A: My favorite course is Palmer Park. Most people hate on it, but I like that the hills are short and steep as opposed to long and drawn out. Sectionals is probably my favorite race every year - small but competitive.
Q: What is your favorite memory or highlight from your time on the track and field or cross country team?
A: RXC was muddy and awful as far as my time, but it was one of the most fun races I've ever run. I had a blast playing in the mud afterwards with all of my teammates. It was funny watching everyone jump in the pond to clean the mud off.
Q: Is there anyone that you'd like to give a special shout-out to?
A: My whole family. My parents who put up with all of the running and come to all of the meets and my grandma who has missed maybe 2 meets throughout my entire running career make the sport that much more fun and enjoyable. They are so supportive, and I love them so much.
Q: What is one piece of advice you would like to leave for your teammates as you graduate?
A: I wish I didn't put so much pressure on myself. I think I would've run better and had a better senior season if I'd just tried to enjoy it. In the end, it's just a sport, and it's meant to be fun.
