Name: Susannah Bennett

Sport: XC

Grade: 11

How long have you been running for the ranger cross country team?

“I’ve been running since seventh grade.”

What is your biggest inspiration throughout your athletic career?

“My biggest inspiration has been my dad because he’s had many health issues but has continued to run everyday and be my biggest supporter through it all.”

Why did you first start cross country?

“I’ve always enjoyed running because my dad is really good at running (marathons, etc), and he has always encouraged me to come running with him. I first did track, but track is fairly repetitive when you run eight laps around the track for one event. Cross country is so different because it feels so free, and I also like running longer mileage.”

What is your best time that you have achieved while running in a race? What was a reason you did particularly well in that race?

“My best time for a 5K is 19:24, and I ran that this season probably because it was a cold meet that day, which is really good for running. Also, it was a big meet, so it was easy to get carried by the crowd.”

What is the hardest part about running cross country? Why?

“The hardest part of running is the mental strength that you need because usually the first mile of practice or a race is easy, but it’s the second, third, fourth, fifth mile that shows the true abilities of a runner. After one mile, motivation is always super low, and it feels like you’re never going to be done running sometimes.”

What do most people not know about running cross country that is an important role in running?

“Cross country is difficult, and most people think that’s a pretty basic sport but so much goes on. If you aren’t motivated, cross country is the worst sport ever because of how hard it is to push yourself to keep moving and keep your head in the game.”

Do you participate in any other sports at FHC? If so which is your favorite?

“I also do track, but I like cross country better.”

Are you interested in running in college and if so where?

“I’m not sure if I would run in college, but if I did run anywhere, I would want to run at Wheaton.”

Where are you planning on going to college and why are you interested in those colleges?

“I’m really interested in University of Michigan and Wheaton because both their academics are good and there is strong sense of community at both places.”

What is your favorite quote about running? Why?

“‘Eat pasta, run fasta’ because it’s just a fun little catchphrase that really doesn’t mean much but I like it.