One thing we came to understand very well was this: if it was a big race and Isabelle Kennedy was in it, you could find her near the front of the field. Colorado Track XC file photo.
Boston College is a long way from home, what created your interest in BC?
When I started looking at colleges, I was pretty interested in leaving Colorado. I love it here, and I felt that if I didn't go away for college, I might never leave. So I was looking out of state. BC seemed like a great balance between strong academics and strong athletics: something that was really important to me. After that, I visited and started talking with their coaches, which only made me more excited about BC.
I'm sure you had a few options, tell us what pushed BC to the top...
When it finally came time to decide, I was torn between three schools, but what really stood out to me at BC was the community. When I went on my official visit, I met the team, and immediately I felt welcome. Even the sprinters and throwers introduced themselves, and everyone was such good friends. I felt at home. I'm really excited to join the team there.
What do you plan to study?
At the moment, my plan is to double major in Secondary Education and English. I am in the Lynch School of Education Honors program, which is an incredible opportunity to do extra research on top of my classes. Eventually I hope to be a high school teacher.
As you look back on a very successful high school career, what has been your most satisfying moment?
Its difficult for me to choose just one, but one that particularly stands out was our cross country banquet this year. I was a captain for our team, and watching everyone receive their awards was incredible. By the end of the season, I knew everyone's name, and I felt like I had been able to make a difference. I worked really hard all season to share my love of running, and support all my teammates, so it was really satisfying to see all that pay off. The team has been exceptionally important to me, so it was great to feel that I had given back, and contributed to make it even better.
Cross country or track?
Cross country and track, even though they're both running, are very different. Personally, I prefer longer distances, so cross country is better in that way. On the other hand, I have learned a ton during track about strategy and pacing, so its difficult to pick. I suppose I like both, but for different reasons.
What's one thing you learned from cross country and track and field that you would not have learned, or at least not as easily, in any other life activity?
People tell you that sportsmanship is all about being a humble winner, or not being a sore loser, but it's really much more than that. To me, it's about camaraderie, respect, and support. Every time I've crossed a finish line, its been to congratulate and support my competitors, many of whom I've come to consider good friends. Running has taught me that being competitive doesn't mean we have to hate each other, like it does in some sports. We can still support each other, root for each other to succeed. The community in running has been amazing, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it (contributed photo, at right).
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With each passing year, we seem to have more and more reason to pay attention to collegiate results out of New England. Isabelle Kennedy going to Boston College simply adds yet another reason to the list. Kennedy's high school career has been a remarkable story of success and we wish her all the best of continued success as she takes her race to the collegiate level--even if at a great distance from Colorado!
