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<strong>Colorado's Class of 2014 makes their decisions...</strong></p>
Erin Norton has emerged as one of the state's grittiest runners the last couple of years--she'll be taking that resolve to Iowa State. Colorado Track XC file photo.
Erin Norton's best marks:
1600 meters - 5:00.20 (at altitude)
3200 meters - 10:59.93 (at altitude)
5K cross country - 17:47.70
Tell us about what drew you to Iowa State--aspects of the school, the program, just about anything that nudged you in the direction of Ames.
At Iowa State I experienced one of those very real "gut feelings" people always say you should go with and I didn't feel that at any other school. Also, the program is phenomenal; I want to be able to come out of college being able to look at some numbers and know 100% that they represent the fastest this body I was born with can go. At Iowa State, I have confidence enough in the program and coaches that I can reach this goal.
As a coach, I find it especially satisfying when a female athlete continues to make progress all the way through high school. You've been the poster child one of those athletes--you didn't start out at the top, but you kept rising in the ranks. Was there a moment you can identify that changed your mindset from a good runner to one of the top runners in Colorado?
I honestly had no idea that I had some talent until the Liberty Bell Track Invite my sophomore year. It wasn't a particularly phenomenal race; I ran an ok time for that year. But it was also the first time I'd ever taken a real chance and pushed myself enough to go for a third place finish against girls I hadn't thought possible to beat. And then... I had confidence!
What is your favorite memory, thus far, from high school track and field or cross country?
My sophomore year, we had three freshman who demonstrated that they could run pretty solid 800s and I called the four of us together the "dream team" because we wanted to make it to state in the 4x800, and it was very possible. Those girls to this day are my best friends and making state that year is the absolutely best memory I have.
I ask this of just about everyone, but is there anything special you want to accomplish in your final season?
I am very particular about the goals that I have; in the past I've always written them down and circled them--in June, I wrote down "3rd" and circled it for XC. This year, I've decided that instead of just writing down what I want, I'm sticking an "at least" by everything so I don't accidentally limit myself. So this season, I want AT LEAST some solid top-three finishes. At least.
Which do you like better, track or cross country?
In cross country it's a one-race sort of thing but I love sitting in the stands at a track meet and watching races all day long. I particularly love watching the 4x100 and I'll definitely stop by to watch some shot put. I usually cheer for my teammates until my throat is sore (as long as it's after my races...sorry coach).
I recall several conversations over the last few years when we were talking about distance events and someone would mention "Erin." Frequently, I'd have to ask them to clarify between Hooker, McLaughlin, and Norton. Has this been half as confusing or frustrating for you as it has been for me?
At the start of the state 1600m race last spring, all three of us were in a row. This pleased me so much! We're a force to be reckoned with! I enjoy it so much it's not frustrating at all. Plus, I'll be at school with Erin Hooker so I better get used to it...maybe get myself a nickname. Perhaps E-Dawg or something like that.
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You get the irresistable impression, even from a short conversation with Erin, that this is a young lady very passionate about what she does. We've seen that passion spilling over onto course and track these last couple of years. Don't miss the opportunity to catch it yet again this spring. And, if you can't find her on the track, be sure to check the shot put venue.
