What was your most memorable meet and why?
My most memorable meet was the 2018 AR/OK Allstar Meet because I was able to finish
3rd and set a new PR, despite having an injury at the beginning of the season that was
supposed to prevent me from running at all. It was so amazing to end my senior year of
cross country on such a good note. It definitely helped me regain my confidence in myself
and my abilities again.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I faced my biggest competition at the state meet this year. I knew that a strong group of
girls were going to set a controlled pace and the race would come down to who could take
the most pain.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?
I am most proud of holding my schools 3200m record and for finishing 8th at the state
meet this year. I know that even when I graduate that my record will still stand for many
years to come and that I have left my mark on our school.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in
high school?
I would definitely listen to my body more and go easier at times. I battled a lot of injuries
because I didn't listen to my body and back off when it was necessary. I thought if I could
take the pain then I could keep running.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The two injuries that were the most devastating to me was my stress fracture in my
femur my Sophomore year that prevented me from running that season, and the injury at
the beginning of my senior year. My doctor told me it was unlikely that I would be
competitive my senior year, but I still persevered and had a very successful season.
What will you miss the most?
I will definitely miss my coaches the most. They have supported me through all the highs
and lows of my running career. Through my injuries they have always reminded me to trust
God's timing for my life and not my own. They are my "track dads" and I will miss getting
teased everyday by them.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Dedication is the most important aspect of our sport. Anyone can be a runner, but it is
the athletes that are willing to give it their all everyday that become amazing runners.
What are your post-high school or college plans?
I have been very blessed with many amazing offers to continue my running career in
college. I haven't made a decision yet, but I am very excited for what the future holds!
UPDATE: Julia has choosen to continue her running career at the University of Central Arkansas
Who would you like to say thank you to?
I would like to thank my parents most of all. They have never missed a race and have always believed in me and my abilities. None of this could have been possible without your love and support. I would like to thank my coaches as well for always believing in me and supporting me. I will miss you all greatly next year.