Trail Talk With Claire Turner
9/29/2011 12:00:00 AM | Track & Field, Cross Country
Sept. 29, 2011
As the University of Alabama men's and women's cross country teams gear up the Greater Louisville Classic in Louisville, Ky. this weekend, sophomore Claire Turner looks to improve upon her personal best of 18:43.60 that she set at the 5-kilomoeter Commodore Classic on Sept. 17. Turner recently took a moment to discuss the 2011 season and how her success last year as a freshman helped her prepare for 2011.
How has the team been preparing for the meet this weekend at Louisville?
This has been a really important week for us because we're starting to get ready for that championship part of the season. There's going to be some intense competition out there as we get focused for the SEC Championship and NCAA Regionals.
What was it like to set a personal record at the Commodore Classic?
It was awesome. It went really well. We've had some really great workouts and hard training the past couple of weeks. I'm starting to feel the workouts, and we're getting stronger as a team. We were able to work together and come out with a win.
How did it feel to capture a first-place team finish at the Commodore Classic?
It was amazing. That was one of the first wins we've had as a team I believe. It's awesome to go on the road to someone else's course and get a win.
Does your mindset and training change as you get closer to the championship meets?
We train really, really hard at the beginning of the season. But as we get closer to the championship meets, we start to taper off so that our legs can start resting. We have to stay focused on the workouts because this is when it really counts with the SEC Championship and NCAA Regionals coming up. We have to stay healthy and fit as we get closer to those meets.
Did competing regularly as a freshman last season help you prepare for the 2011 season?
Absolutely. This is all completely different from high school. Any race that I can get out there and run with a big pack of girls is a great experience.
What has it been like running under a new staff with Coach Waters?
They've been really great. I was kind of nervous at first but they definitely know what they're doing. They're very knowledgable about racing.
What goes through your mind before a race starts?
I don't get too nervous but I am anxious. I just try to get out there and do the best for myself, my team and my family.
What have been your favorite workouts this season?
I really enjoy fartleks. A fartlek is where you have an extended period of time where you run at an increased pace and then you have a little bit of time for a rest period. It's just a continuous process. It helps mimic a race where you need to understand when to surge whether you're going down a hill or needing to stay with pace.
What is your least favorite workout?
Hill workouts. Without a doubt.
What do you enjoy outside of running?
I'm a nursing major so I really enjoy nursing. I also like to cook, rest and hang out with my friends.
What's been the best part about your experience at Alabama?
I've been given a great opportunity to run and go to school here. This is really preparing me for a future as a nurse and whatever else I decide to do.
