We got a chance to talk to Oak Park sophomore, Anna Jefferson, who has already had a tremendous start to her indoor season.
Personal Records:
55 Meter Dash - 7.41
60 Meter Dash - 7.72
200 Meter Dash - 24.60
400 Meter Dash - 55.44
Michigan MileSplit: Now I realize it's early in the season, but you are currently leading the state in the 60, 200, 400, the 4x200, and the 4x400 as well as being in the top 10 in the 200, 400, 4x200, and 4x400 in the nation. Is this about how you thought your indoor season would begin or are you a little surprised?
Anna Jefferson: I never really expected my season to start off so well. I thought that I'd start at an okay spot and slowly work my way up from there. But I'm pretty happy that it's going good so far.
MI MileSplit: I was on the field at last years state meet when you threw up moments before starting the 400, then got back in the blocks, run a 55.44 (your PR) and won the race. What do you remember about the before/after of that race?
AJ: Before my race I was thinking that I have to show up and show out. Being the youngest competitor in that race, I felt that everyone didn't really expect so much out of me. After my race the only thing I thought was 'I did it'. I felt that I proved some people wrong.
MI MileSplit: Unfortunately, many track people most likely remember the way the state meet ended for you guys last year, with a disqualification in the 4x4. Can you remember what the rest of the day was like for you and your team?
AJ: It was a somber moment for all of us. We received a lot of comments tell us to cheer up, a few said good job and others said 'Maybe next year.' That really broke my heart.
MI MileSplit: Is there something special about being with the same girls for years for both indoor and outdoor track now?
AJ: It's like a sorority. We all have each others backs no matter what. Instead of 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' it's like 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Spikes' for us.
MI MileSplit: What are your end goals for this indoor season? How about outdoor?
AJ: My goal for this indoor season is to come in the top 8 in my individual events at New Balance Indoor Nationals. For outdoors, I'm aiming to come back and win states again in my individuals and the 4x400 without any problems. Same for AAU track.
MI MileSplit: How/when did you get involved running track?
AJ: My mom told me that she used to run track back in high school with Coach Woody Thomas. When she told me about her memories running I said that I wanted to try it out. I started running with Motor City Track Club when I was 8 years old at Adams/Butzel Recreation Complex. From there I went from running at only local meets to running across the country. I'm pretty happy that I started running because I would have never met my best friend, Carlita.
Quick Q's
MI MileSplit: Facebook or Twitter (or Instagram)?
AJ: I'd prefer Facebook because it has games. Sometimes I get tired of seeing the same thing on Instagram and Twitter. It gives you the chance to stop looking at people and have fun.
MI MileSplit: Winter or summer?
AJ: I love the summer. The fresh air helps me breath easier, due to my asthma, I'm not cold all of the time, I don't have to worry about putting on layers upon layers of clothes when I'm finished running, and I get to wear my spikes more often.
MI MileSplit: Favorite place for breakfast?
AJ: My favorite place to eat breakfast is our cottage up north. It's quiet, away from the hassle of the city, and it lets me be alone with nature. I get to appreciate the beauty of the Earth without leaving Michigan.
MI MileSplit: Movie you just saw or want to see?
AJ: I would really love to see 'About Last Night' it looks hilarious!
