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Flanagan won the 2002 NCAA Cross Country
title for UNC (Alex Moore) |
Shalane Flanagan is a junior at the University of North Carolina-Chapel
Hill and is arguably the most dominant female collegiate distance
runner in the nation with countless All-American certificates, blazing
track marks, and a cross country national title.
1. Did you go into this year’s national race with
a predetermined race plan or just go out there and see how the race
unfolds and how you feel?
My plan for this year’s cross country race was to race the
same way I had been racing all season. I think it is helpful to
carry my routine into the championship races. My racing was fairly
consistent in that at a mile and a half I would try to throw in
a surge and try to drop people. If I couldn't drop people then I
had confidence that I could pull out some of my 1500 speed at the
end.
2. What were the main differences, both mentally and physically
between this year's cross country season and last year's?
Last year I wanted to win too much. I didn't execute the race plan
my coach and I had talked about and I went too hard too soon and
ended up hurting my race. I also felt by winning the NCAA female
runner of the year it shocked me and added unwanted stress. However,
I did put it all out there and I can at least say I tried hard.
I feel that from that one race I have learned more than from winning
any race. I am now a stronger person mentally and physically. The
race as a result motivated me to learn how to be a smarter racer.
This past Monday I knew the only person that could beat me, was
me.
3. What is your basic training philosophy in terms of quality
vs. quantity and your thoughts on easy days?
I guess my training philosophy incorporates strength and speed.
I want to be known as a dimensional runner who can run a range of
events. This summer I ran 4 weeks at 70 miles and gradually tapered
from there and tried to make sure I did strides at least 2 times
a week.
4. How do you balance running with social activities at
UNC?
Chapel Hill is a hot spot for fun -- not just going out to parties
but sporting events overwhelm the area. During the school year,
I like to go out with teammates or friends at least once a week
to keep myself sane and social.
5. What are your thoughts about the people who say how
bad drinking is for your running (when most of those people cant
break 20 minutes for a 5k)?
I probably shouldn't answer this but I guess I will leave you with
this equation. I am IRISH and I am 21, you do the math.
6. What kind of times do you want to run indoors and outdoors
this year in track?
I haven't really thought about track yet but, it would be nice
to break 9 minutes in the 3k indoor, break our American record in
the DMR, and whip out a fast 5k and 1500 double at outdoor NCAA
Championships.
7. Do you help your mother with new ideas or products for
her website, www.prettysporty.com?
Nah, that is her thing.
8. What is your major and why did you choose it?
History major, I chose it because I am a nerd. No but for real,
I am a huge history buff -- I love the history channel. Also, the
professors in the history department are cool cats and I enjoy going
to their classes.
9. Any advice for young female runners out there?
My message to younger runners would be: TRAIN SMARTER NOT HARDER.
Kind of weird advice you might think, but I feel I have been successful
due to the fact that I have never been injured and have been able
to train consistently over many years. I am stronger due to the
consistent training.
Thanks to Shalane, and the best of luck to her this winter and
spring. Go Heels!