Riverside’s Cate Ambrose talks about the sport and team as the Warriors prepare for the Bob Jenkins SCTCCCA Coaches Classic.
Name: Cate Anne Ambrose
Personal bests: 5K- 19:04, 3200-11:05
Hobbies: Swimming, spending time with friends, Hiking
Academic interest: Math
Week 1 scrunners and SCTCCCA AOTW: Cate Ambrose and Micah Williams
How did you get involved in the sport and why?
I was a competitive swimmer and wanted to try something new.
Tell us about your Eye Opener race this past weekend, what did it mean to finish with the the number one time for the state this year?
I tried to break out of the pack as quickly as I could. I knew the pace would be fast because of the competition. It feels great to finish with the number one time in the state because I worked so hard this summer.
What will it mean to you be at the Coaches Classic meet Saturday and see your coach inducted in the SCTCCCA Hall of Fame?
I can't wait to share that moment with him. There is no one that deserves it more than he does. I admire and respect him and the way he encourage us to push the limits so we can reach our goals.
Do you have any family members involved in the sport? Please explain.
No, they're all involved in different sports, but I am the only runner!
What roles do you have on the team this year as the top runner?
Our team is really big with lots of young runners. I try to encourage them and support them any way I can.
What goals do you have for the rest of the season and this weekend at Coaches Classic?
I would love to maintain my position and I am hoping to break 19 minutes this weekend. Hopefully I'll end the season the way I started it!
Do you have any post season cross country meets planned?
Not right now, I am just concentrating on our season and finishing on top.
Do you have a specific race strategy that works best for you?
I try to think about the course and how I want to run it. Other than that I just go out and try my best.
What do you enjoy about the Riverside team and being on the course with them daily?
I love my team and they are some of my best friends. Everyone is so supportive and we push each other every day. They are an amazing group of girls.
What plans do you have for the future?
I just want to keep running and I am excited to see where it takes me.
Are you looking to run at a college?
Yes, right now that is one of my goals.
Do you remember your first race?
It was the Eye Opener last year and I was scared to death. What a difference a year makes!
How did summer training go?
It was really fun and my teammates and I worked really hard. It's paying off now.
What do you remember the most from being a runner?
Winning the state cross country team championship last year is my best memory by far. Winning the 3200 meters was also nice!
Do you have a pre-race tradition?
I eat chicken minis before every big race!
How do you balance academics, athletics and other responsibilities?
I try to stay organized and on top of things. I think running helps me stay disciplined on and off the course.
What challenges or injuries have you encountered in the sport? How did you stay motivated during this time?
I've been really lucky and have only had minor aches and pains.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
The world is a big place and right now I don't know where my life will take me. I do know that I want to make a difference in other peoples lives and to make a difference wherever I go.
Favorite runner(s): Mary Cain
Favorite food: Tacos
Favorite bands: I love all country music!
Favorite quote: For nothing will be impossible with God. Luke 1:37
Favorite training shoe and racing shoe: training- Mizunos and Racing- Saucony
Inspirational person in your life: My mom and dad
