Name: Claire Rusovick
School: Mountain Range
What's your most Memorable Race?
My most memorable race moment was definitely my win at the Liberty Bell Track Invitational last year. I had been on a plateau consistently for four weeks prior to that race, so finally coming out on top was amazing. It was thrilling not only to surprise the spectators, but most importantly to surprise myself. I knew that I was capable of running a special race, but once I crossed the finish line everything changed...I had truly done it. That was huge for me.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
While I would say that my biggest competition was myself, I really enjoyed competing with the athletes on Broomfield. Maddie Mooney was someone who really inspired me early on and was a fierce competitor that I looked up to for guidance.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment while running in high school was not the times or my placing, but more importantly my grit. I've endured my fair share of adversity the past few years, but I've always been able to get back up quickly and keep moving. I don't think I would've had the same success without a tough spirit.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your career in high school?
If I could do it all over again, I would be running more races and chasing bigger goals earlier on. My freshman year, I didn't even know what State or NXR was! No one in my family runs or has ever run, so it took me a long time to get the experience that eventually helped me tremendously.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was learning to rely on myself and be my own biggest fan. I've often had to train alone and race alone. Mentally, it was very challenging and stressful to compete at races like State and Mullen while surrounded by other athletes with their teammates. I felt like I couldn't connect personally with someone else who was feeling the same emotions of excitement and stress before something so big- I was relying solely on myself. While I think that has turned out to be one of my greatest strengths, I cannot wait to be a part of an incredible team next year and have others to share those moments with!
What will you miss the most?
I know that I will always miss my high school's track. Mountain Range is very lucky, our facilities are beautiful! Being outside after a long, stressful day of school and having the ability to let it all go with a hard track workout and an insane view of the mountains definitely relieves any negatives from the day.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?
The advice I would give to younger athletes is to truly think about what you want out of your high school career. Set your goals from the start and built upon them consistently. Four years is a short time to prepare for college athletics, so use everything you've got if that is something you strive to pursue! It's 100% okay if you decide that you want to just have fun and meet great people, as long as you have decided for yourself that is what you are after.
I don't want you to live with regrets. I've seen too many people sacrifice what they really want in the long run for other things that they want in the now, simply because they never established their goals. If you are dreaming of big things from your sport, know that you will firsthand have to be persistent, responsible, and willing to make sacrifices that others will choose not to make. But also know that the journey you take is going to be one of the most exciting and rewarding ones you've ever had!
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
I've been fortunate enough to have had two outstanding coaches in my high school career.
My first coach, Chris Smith, is the reason that I'm able to continue my running career after high school and also the reason that I've had such a rewarding experience in high school. He saw talent in me that I didn't see in myself and encouraged me to be who I am today. Sometimes all it takes is having another person who believes in you and wants the best for you that can completely alter your purpose in life. Because of my him, I strive to not only be the best athlete I can be, but more importantly a great role model and a friend to others. I'm a better person because I had him as a coach.
My current coach, Dan Reese, has also changed my life and perspective on distance running. He's not only guided and supported me throughout the entire recruiting process, but most importantly coached me through one of the hardest times in my life. I've never met someone that is so selfless, supportive, and quick to see the positives. My future goals for the track and my overall life are tremendous, but more importantly realistic because of Dan's support. He is without a doubt one of my greatest role models.
What are your college plans?
My plan is to study Animation at and run for the University of Utah!
Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
I'd like to say 'thank you' to my coaches, my family, and everyone that has supported/inspired me throughout my high school career. I wouldn't be here without you!
Anything else you'd like to add?
To anyone reading this: Live fearlessly, with gratitude, and of course, believe in yourself.
