Meet Meropi Panagiotou
9/24/2014 12:00:00 AM | Track & Field, Cross Country
How did you begin running distance?
"I started high jumping when I was in elementary school, but unfortunately that did not work out since I am not tall enough for the event. I was still practicing for high jump when I won my first cross country race my first year of middle school. Then, my PE teachers and my parents - especially my dad who used to be a runner - told me that I could be a really good runner. So, I began practicing in a club and I loved it. Winning some races and moving up to the next level gave me more passion and excitement to keep working hard and setting higher goals."
What inspired you to come to the University of Alabama?
"My coach and my dad told me that the United States offered more opportunities both in academics and athletics and I decided to try it. I made my decision to come to the U.S. late, so I did not have time to search for schools and choose where I wanted to go. My dad's coworker used to be a swimmer here and he told me about the university and I said, `ok let's go there.' Even though I did not have time to visit and decide if I like it here, I do not regret coming. It has been one of the best decisions I made in my life and I am really happy to be a part of the Bama family."
What is the biggest difference between last year and this year?
"The main difference is the number of people on the team. The team is getting bigger each year, and that is really exciting. It's better to have a lot of people to train with, so they can help you through your weaknesses and you can help them through theirs. That way everyone will get better."
What goals do you have for this year?
"My goals for this year is to make it to nationals as a team for cross country. We just missed it last year. Then for indoor and outdoor track, I want to help the team, score, set new personal records and make it to nationals."
What is your biggest accomplishment on the track or the course you've had thus far in your career?
"I think my biggest accomplishment was during the summer of 2012 when I punched my ticket for the World Junior Championships in Barcelona with a 4.22.73 in the 1,500 meters. I count it as my biggest accomplishment because I worked really hard and had a race every weekend in order to reach the time that I needed to be able to compete. I had to stay focused and not give up until I used all of my chances. I reached the time I needed to participate during my last meet. I still have hard time believing it."
If you could try any event besides distance, what track event would it be?
"I really wanted to stay with high jump. I just love the passion that the event gives you along with the amount of stress and power at the same time. Also, you have a second and third chance which you don't have in running events. When the gun fires, there is no time for mistakes."
What is a piece of advice you would give young runners?
"I think the most important thing in order to succeed is to set your goal and reach for them. Keep trying and working hard, and as (strength) coach Rocky (Colburn) says, `like it when it hurts.' It's only going to make you better. You need to have a dream, desire and vision so that you can achieve excellence."
