Elizabeth Reyes is 14 years old and lives in Taos. She is a freshman at Taos High, where she is enrolled in all honors classes and participates in cross country, soccer, track and swimming.
Why I love my sport
I run cross country – the one, two and three mile races. I feel really good after I run; it is time to yourself, almost like a hobby. It gives me time to think things over. I like to run before I do my homework; its clears my head and helps me focus on school. Running definitely impacts my confidence. I feel more comfortable in crowds and I am more used to people watching me. I love being with team. All the members are so supportive of each other.
How to get started
In 6th grade, I got interested in track. I liked running distances and everyone encouraged me to do cross country. At first, I was scared to run more than one mile. When I was in 8th grade, I ran two miles and my coach told me to go out for cross country at Taos High.
Overcoming fears
It took time to realize that running three miles isn’t that bad. If feels like nothing now. Some of my fears have been not being able to keep up or finish. It is important to be mentally prepared and tell yourself you can do it. You also have to get yourself in shape to run.
Accomplishments
Being able to finish is always an accomplishment. Last year, both the boys and girls teams won State in cross country. I am proud of being part of a state championship team. It was boys’ first State title and the girls’ team hadn’t won it in 20 years. Being part of this team, made me more determined strive for bigger goals.
My goal for the mile this year is to break six minutes. In the two mile race, I want to run a State qualifying time. My goal by the end of my high school career is to have a school record for the mile or the two mile.
Basic equipment/clothing to get started
You need a good pair of running shoes and some basic workout clothes – they don’t need to be fancy.
Advice to girls and women who are interested in this sport
My advice would be take your time and take baby steps. Be mentally strong; your body will follow your mind. In order to feel comfortable, you may have to work up to a goal and sometimes you may have to push outside of your comfort zone. Don’t give up, because running can be hard, but you can do it. Once you get your mind there, you are set for your running career.