Name: Laurie Barton
Personal bests: 19:01 5K, 56.6 400m, 2:20 800m, 1:04 400m hurdles
Hobbies: Music, running, soccer, art
Academic interest: math, anatomy and biology
How did you get involved in the sport and why?
I could no longer do soccer, but I still wanted to do a sport and stay in shape for track, so my friends convinced me to run cross country with them.
Tell us about your Wendy's Invitational performance?
I was very pleased with my time and it was great running weather. I took a minute and a half off my PR from last year, which I ran at Wendy’s as well.
Photo gallery: Wendy's Invitational girls invitational 5K
How did your race at Wendy's unfold?
At the beginning, I started off strong and I felt confident because I ran the same course last year. But I was a little confused because I didn’t know where the mile markers were. This was my first race that I have run without knowing my mile splits or pace while I was running.
Do you have any family members involved in the sport? Please explain.
Yes, my younger sister Carrie ran cross country last year, but was unable to participate this year due to injury. My older sister Amy ran cross country one year, she is a sprinter now at SWU.
Class AAA girls individual rankings
What roles do you have on the team this year?
I run my best for the team.
What goals do you have for the rest of the season?
I would like to get sub 19.
Do you have any post season cross country meets planned?
No, but I will start training for track.
Do you have a specific race strategy that works best for you?
I get out in front at the beginning and then try to maintain my position.
What do you enjoy about the Daniel team and being on the course with them daily?
I like how diverse our group is but we all get along together and cheer each other on.
What plans do you have for the future?
I would like to become a nurse and run track in college.
Are you looking to run at a college?
Yes, preferably middle-distance track, but I am not sure which colleges I’m interested in yet.
Do you remember your first race?
Yes, it was Eye Opener last year and I remember wondering if it would ever end. Afterwards, I felt so accomplished but not necessarily excited for the next race since it was so difficult.
How did summer training go?
It went well. Coach Dawson and Coach Perry made us a running schedule for the summer, and we met once or twice each week.
What do you remember the most from being a runner?
I haven’t run cross country very long but I remember running the 4x400 relay with my friends and my sister Amy. It is fun because the crowd gets so excited and it is the last event.
Do you have a pre-race tradition? Please explain.
All the girls on my team give each other a “secret sister” gift before every race and we braid each other’s hair.
How do you balance academics, athletics and other responsibilities?
Athletics actually helps me to be successful in academics and other things because it helps me manage my time and stress. It gets my extra energy out so that I can concentrate and be motivated to work.
What challenges or injuries have you encountered in the sport?
Last year I became anemic in the middle of the season and my race times went up by minutes. It was really discouraging but my teammates and coaches did everything they could to help and encourage me.
If there is one thing in the world you could do, what would it be and why?
I would travel the world because I love different cultures and languages.
Favorite runner(s): Allyson Felix
Favorite food: mango
Favorite bands: TFK, Lecrae, Colton Dixon, Toby Mac
Favorite quote: “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Favorite training shoe and racing shoe: I train in saucony and race in nike
Inspirational person in your life: My Grandma because she is so supportive of my running and she is always positive and seeking to please God in every situation.
