We got a chance to talk to St. Johns junior, Karrigan Smith, after a fantastic season that earned her a split for the Lansing Area Cross Country Runner of the Year.
Personal Records:
800 Meter Run - 2:16.28
1600 Meter Run - 4:57.62
One Mile Run - 4:58.75
3200 Meter Run - 11:10.04
5000 Meter Run - 18:04.00
Michigan MileSplit: Now I would argue that the cross country girls D2 race was the most exciting race of the day. Is that what helped push you to a PR on some of the crummiest course conditions of the year?
Karrigan Smith: That was an amazing race, with some amazing runners. I really started to notice the poor conditions coming back into the stadium. However, those conditions were at the back of my mind, and the finish line and staying with Kenzie and Jackie were my top priority. The lead pack really pushed me past what I thought I could do, and I believe that it's what helped me to a career PR.
MI MileSplit: How do you like running at MIS for the state meet? Any course you'd rather see the meet run at?
KS: The State Meet at MIS is unlike any other meet I run all year, and that is why I like it so much. Although it is not very 'spectator-friendly', from a running standpoint, it's great. The atmosphere created helps to make it a very fast course.
MI MileSplit: You had to split the Lansing State Runner of the Year with Meg Darmofal from Mason. Is that a little bit of a rivalry between you guys? I'm sure you see each other all the time.
KS: It is an incredible honor to even be thought of for the LSJ Runner of the Year. Sure, there is a rivalry between Meg and me, but the cool thing about our rivalry is that off the course, we are good friends. I'm sure Meg would like to see me succeed as much as I would like to see her succeed. This friendly rivalry is what pushes me every day.
MI MileSplit: What are some things you are hoping to accomplish this indoor season? How about outdoor?
KS: This indoor season, I am really looking towards fine tuning my racing. It is important to me that I work on my racing strategy to prepare me for the outdoor season, and bring my times down. As for my outdoor goals, I would love to make a run towards my first State Championship. Overall, I am looking to finish my junior year strong in preparation for my senior year.
MI MileSplit: How/when did you get involved running cross country/track?
KS: I started to get involved in running during my 7th grade year when my gym teacher made us do "4 lap Friday". I became focused on setting new personal records every time we were asked to run the mile. It wasn't until my 8th grade year, however, that I really knew that running was something I really wanted to focus on.
Quick Q's
MI MileSplit: Track or cross country?
KS: Cross Country; my team is so close-knit and they make the sport that much more enjoyable.
MI MileSplit: Winter or summer?
KS: Summer
MI MileSplit: Favorite place for breakfast?
KS: The Wheel Inn
MI MileSplit: Movie you just saw or want to see?
KS: The Butler; such an inspiring movie.
