Name: Courtney Shearer
Personal bests: 19:29-5k 5:35-1600 11:53-3200 2:28-800
Hobbies: Playing the guitar and violin, spending time with friends, running
Academic interest: math, physics, computer science
How did you get involved in the sport and why?
I started running in the seventh grade, when my sister was a junior. She encouraged me to run, so I gave it a shot. I’ve been running ever since then.
Do you have any family members involved in the sport? Please explain.
My grandfather started running when my dad was in high school. They both were runners. My sister ran in high school as well, and she was quite good.
What roles do you have on the team this year?
I’ve become the unofficial leader of the team. The kids kind of look up to me and it is my goal to be an example for them to follow and aspire to be like.
What goals do you have for the rest of the season? I would love to run under 19 and place well at state.
Do you have any post season cross country meets planned?
I’ve thought about Foot Locker South.
Do you have a specific race strategy that works best for you?
I like to go out fast and try to set a good tone for my race.
What do you enjoy about the Emerald team and being on the course with them daily?
There is a lot of love on this team. We are all always encouraging each other. This team will always be my family.
What plans do you have for the future?
I would like attend Clemson University. I am hoping to get into their Honors Program as well.
Are you looking to run at a college?
Yes, I would like to run for Clemson.
Do you remember your first race? Yes, it was a 4K at Erskine. I remember being so excited that I forgot how to tie my shoes.
How did summer training go?
I ran a lot of miles this summer. Coach (David) Payne and I really wanted to establish a strong base for the season.
What do you remember the most from being a runner?
Being a runner has been more for me than tough workout and personal bests. I will never forget all of the people I have been blessed to meet and lives I have impacted.
Do you have a pre-race tradition? Please explain.
I like to eat spaghetti and relax the night before. In the morning I do some focusing prior to the meet, and then I stay relaxed and try to keep my teammates at ease until we get to the starting line.
How do you balance academics, athletics and other responsibilities?
It is pretty hard. I just have to keep reminding myself that the good days come with hard days. I try to stay focused on my goals.
What challenges or injuries have you encountered in the sport? How did you stay motivated during this time?
I had a couple stress fractures in middle school. The way my team uplifted my spirits during this time is what motivated me to stick with running. I try to give my body what it needs to stay healthy now.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would love to be able to use my passions for math and science to help people. My ultimate goal is just to help people in any way they need me.
Favorite runner(s): Molly Huddle, Lolo Jones
Favorite food: Pumpkin Spice Greek Yogurt
Favorite bands: The Killers, Haim, Fitz and the Tantrums
Favorite quote: “Nothing splendid has ever been achieved except by those who dared believe that something inside of them was superior to circumstance.”
― Bruce Barton
Favorite training shoe and racing shoe: Saucony Cortana and the Nike Zoom Victory
Inspirational person in your life: My sister, Alyssa Shearer, and Coach Payne