Women's Cross Country Senior: Rachel Smith

Rachel Smith

By Tegan Ellis

What is your major, and how did you end up at ONU?

My major is professional writing. I chose ONU because I was looking for a small liberal arts school, and I also wanted to run.

What motivates you on the course?

I like feeling like I did my best when I finish the race. I never want to think I could have run faster. You want to do your best for your team at every race.

What advice can you leave for the underclassmen?

Enjoy it while you can. Don’t take things for granted.

As a three-time returning letter winner and a senior this year, do you feel any pressure to continually lead your team to victory?

No, I wouldn’t say there is any extra pressure. All the girls put pressure on themselves to do well, and the team expects you to do your best, but there isn’t any extra pressure this year.

What race do you look forward to the most?

Conference, its always the most exciting, and it’s what the team looks forward to every year.

What is your goal for the team this season?

To defend our OAC title. We also want to place higher at the regional meet.

How do you balance a busy workout schedule with an intense course load?

It’s all about time management. I know I have practice everyday so I know I have to get things done when I can. Practice is a great break from work; it’s a great stress reliever.

What are your strengths as a runner?

I’m very focused and competitive when I race. I don’t like when people pass me. You have to have the chip on your shoulder mentality, that aggressive approach to racing.

How have you seen yourself grow over the past four years?

I look at running differently than when I first got here. My passion has grown. When you get older you change your mindset. You take different mental approaches to racing. I’ve realized the more experience you get the more you grow as a runner.

You are a top ten runner at ONU in both the 5,000 meter and 6,000 meter races. What can you accredit to this success?

Definitely my teammates, I couldn’t run like I do if they didn’t push me and help me with my workouts. They are the reason I want to work hard everyday. It wouldn’t be as much fun without them.

As a two-time All-Conference honoree and an All-Regional honoree, is there anything you still wish to accomplish this season?

I want to make it to nationals with the team. We are itching to go. I would have to say that would be my ultimate goal.

What will you miss most about your career at ONU?

My friends, the team that I have spent four years running with in the snow, the wind and the muck. You make a bond, and that’s what I’m going to miss the most.