Erin Hooker: Ft. Collins to Iowa State University

<h3 style="text-align: center;"> Colorado&#39;s Signing Class of 2013</h3>

Ames, Iowa, is a full day's drive from Fort Collins, but not so far in terms of level of program. Both excel at what they do in distance. Contributed photo.

 

Name: Erin Hooker 
 
High School: Fort Collins High School 
 
Signing with: Iowa State University 
 
What clinched the decision for the school you signed with: I had heard from several people and coaches that Coach Ihmels at Iowa State was one of the best coaches in the nation for distance running, and when I visited I really liked his relaxed but focused attitude. The team is really friendly, the school isn't too far away from home, and the recent success of the team brought it to the top of my list. 
 
Your favorite high school track event: 3200 meters 
 
Your favorite high school athletic memory: Every year the Nike Southwest meet is a blast, but my sophomore year was the most memorable! We were in great spirits because both the girls and boys teams had qualified for Nike Cross Nationals. Unfortunately, our flight got cancelled because of fog in Denver so we had to spend the night in the airport! At first everyone thought it was insanely fun (especially playing hide and seek) but in the morning hardly anyone was happy after a night of no sleep. It is something I will never forget!