There are only 8 more days until the USATF Junior Olympics for Cross Country. Ever since I went to Nationals last year for the first time, I decided I wanted to go back this year and see if I could do better.

So I have been working really really hard not just this Fall, but all year long.  In the Spring, I did track to help me with my speed. It was challenging towards the end of the season because I had a lot of heel pain from all of the hard pounding on my feet.

Luckily, taking 3 weeks off in August/ September before starting cross country seemed to help a lot. I also gave up competitive soccer and cut back on all my extra running at school. I stretch my calves a lot and use this bumpy roller ball on the bottom of my feet whenever I sit at my desk to do homework. I haven’t had any problems all season. Yeah!

Now it’s getting down to the final days before the big day. After Regionals, my practices have gotten much much tougher. My coaches are wanting us to “peak” at nationals. I’ve been very focused and I’ve had some amazing workouts that have surprised me. I feel strong and fast! 🙂

My biggest focus right now is on staying healthy and eating right. It’s winter time and a lot of kids are getting sick with colds and bronchitis. I am washing my hands like crazy and dressing super warm for practices. Even when I’m hot I don’t take my long sleeves off. Our practices are at night and the temperature drops a lot. I’m drinking tons of green smoothies and have been on a “candy fast” until after the Championships. And finally, I’m going to sleep early every night.

With only a few more days to go, I am getting more and more excited about the trip. This year the Junior Olympics will be in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. It will be my second time to Myrtle Beach this year since I went in July for the USA Youth Outdoor Nationals for Track and Field. Back then it was like 104 degrees and it was just me and my mom- no coaches, no teammates.

This time will be much different.

I have 23 other teammates going to compete as well. I will have 3 coaches. And best of all, I will have some additional family members out there to support me. It’s going to be so fun!!!