IOWATFXC.COM Interview with Alana Enabnit
I. When/how did you get started with your running?
As a 7th grader I really wanted to participate in a school sport, but because I am a figure skater the scheduling is very difficult. Track was the only sport that didn’t interfere too much with skating. I was DEFINITELY not a sprinter, so my coach stuck me in a 1500, and I ran a decent time. It turned out figure skating long programs really helped my stamina. After that I was really motivated to work at the longer distances, and I have loved running ever since.
II. Describe the support for your running that you’ve received from your family?
My family is a major part of why I have achieved what I have in running or anything for that matter. My parents, siblings, aunt, grandma, grandpa, and cousins make it to almost every meet I have. They are my biggest cheerleaders as well as my biggest prayer warriors. They have always believed in me and never doubted any of my goals and dreams. Without my family I would not be able to accomplish what I have and what I hope to do.
III. Describe the support for your running that you’ve receive from your team, school, fans, others?
My teammates, friends at school, and church family have all given me great encouragement. In my best moments and in the worst, they have always been there.
IV. Describe the help with your running that you’ve received from you coach(es)?
My coaches help me keep the “bigger picture” in mind. They make sure that I am listening to my body and not overdoing it…I have the tendency to want to over train.
V. Describe your training program (year-around?, mileage, type of training, emphasis).
I usually run between 55-65 miles a week. Every morning I do a long run, and then I do the workouts we have for practice in the afternoon. My morning runs are to increase my stamina and fitness level. Whereas the workouts for practice are usually speed centered, and they include repeats, timed distances, etc. In the off season I put in a lot of distance, and most of the miles are completed through long runs.
VI. What has given you the greatest thrill(s) in running?
Crossing the finish line at State in the 3000 after breaking the 10 minute mark has been my greatest moment. I couldn’t help but give a fist pump. There was a lot of emotion in that race, I cried the last 100 meters because I was so thankful that God had helped me persevere through the many tough times I have had in my running career. The fist pump wasn’t about the win, it was for all the hard work I had put into the sport finally paying off.
VII. Other interests (personal, social, & recreational activities)?
I have been a figure skater for 13 years. I also coach figure skating. I enjoy hanging out with my friends. I love to go to Bible study Sunday mornings. I like basically any form of exercise. I help teach at Vacation Bible school.
VIII. Competition plans for this summer?
I am going to do a lot of road races this summer. I am doing races any where from 5ks-20ks. I have already done the 20k at Dam to Dam in Des Moines, a 4 mile memorial race, and a local 5k.
IX. What are your plans for this fall (college, running)?
I am going to Wartburg College to run Cross Country and Track
IX. How did you decide on that choice of colleges?
Wartburg is a college that I believe will give me great opportunity in athletics, academics, and social activities. I feel like I can easily balance being a student and an athlete there as I get an excellent, well-rounded education. The size and people of the college are the main reasons for my choice. Everyone is so personable. I already feel like I have a little family there.
X. Expectations for the future - running, academics, vocation?
As for academics I believe I am going to be a Communication Arts major, with a concentration in Public Relations. My goal is to continue being a straight “A” student, as well as prepare myself properly for a career that for me is unknown at this point.
As for running I want to increase my mileage and work towards hopefully becoming an All-American college athlete someday. I also want to be a helpful factor in our team and help continue a tradition of great distance running at Wartburg.