Molly Balliet, Marian Catholic HS
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race would definitely have to be the District XI 2012 track meet for the 1600m. I ran a huge pr and came very close to placing. It was a race I can truly never forget.
Where did you face your biggest competition?
I seem to face my biggest competition at Districts, being from District XI. But without competition what is a race?
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
My track team won Schuylkill League champs this year after just missing it the previous year by very few points. But this was more than a win, it was bringing a title back to my school that my team won my freshman year after going 20 years without a division title.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
I wouldn't change anything but the amount of mileage I'd run. Seeing how necessary it is to get those long runs in and longer track workouts done. All of that time and mileage really pays off.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
To name one it would be not having a full team my senior year of cross country. It may be a "individual" sport but you can't score too much without a team.
What will you miss the most?
The amazing people I've met and grown to become very good friends with. They know who they are and they know how much I care about them. Going to the paddock at college meets won't be the same without you girls!
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Believe in yourself completely! A positive mind equals a positive performance. How can you get a new pr if you don't believe you can do it?
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
They most definitely have. My cross country coach was more the motivator and the "go out there and run! You know you can do this!" Where my track coach was the realist and told me straight up what I could and couldn't do to achieve a goal. And all of this put racing into perspective for me. You got to be real about your goals but motivated at the same time and believe you can achieve.
What are your college plans?
I will be attending Mansfield University where I will also further my athletic career in cross country & indoor/outdoor track and my academic career with being a chemistry major.
Shout-Outs?
A big shout out to Abby Warner. You're an amazing runner and I know you can run DII. Keep your head up and don't lose sight of your goal with other distractions. I love you girl!
Alex Hutta, my favorite hurdler. You're an amazing athlete and person! I wish we were still competing together you don't know how much I'll miss warming up with you!
Jeff Groh and Josh Santeusanio my favorite Lower Dauphin boys. I'm so happy I met you both at XC camp! You're both so talented and I know you'll both see this ! Stay focused your senior years and big opportunities will come, I promise.
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