Speedy Sammy Audio Interview

Interview by Santiago

Audio Edit by Jonah

Santiago: Sammy, tell us about last year in cross country.

Sammy: It was really difficult since it was my rookie year. But I overcame it. I practiced and I became the person I am today.

Santiago: How were the races?

Sammy: Some races were easy, but some were hard. But it was always a challenge. There were a lot of obstacles, but you know, there was a chance to overcome them. Times are your best times and your worst times. I actually broke a lot of records last year. I broke the fastest tenth grade record. My best time was 22 and that record hasn't been broken since 2014 by Jonathan Chuck at 29 minutes. The first race was new to me and I felt good. But after I practice, I came top five top 10. And it was a good year from practice.

Santiago: How do you practice and how do you prepare for your issues?

Sammy: Before any practice, I started stretching, meditating, then for motivation, I watch some videos or something about about racing. But then after I start, I keep trying to get better, trying to beat my time each time and actually be the fastest person I can be.

Santiago: What's your mindset coming into the races and competing?

Sammy: I always pray to God and that gets me through the races. When you're mid-race, your mind wants to try to give up, and you slow down. But you have to overcome that feeling. You can either use your mind as something that helps you or let it be be a distraction from the race.