PA Salute To Seniors: Anne Birkenmaier - Unionville HS
What was your most memorable race/competition?
My most memorable race is between my team winning 2ed at 2011 XC states or the 4xMile team winning 3rd at Indoor Nationals 2013
Where did you face your biggest competition?
Myself and my teammates. They constantly push me to work harder and to achieve my goals. I also am really critical and get upset when I do not reach my goals.
Out of all of your high school accomplishments, which stands out the most?
Just improving in general. Coming into our high school program I was not a very good runner. Over the past 4 years I have worked hard and improved a lot.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your athletic career in high school?
I wouldn't change a thing. All the obstacles I went through made me who I am today.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The idea that I couldn't do something. I had to change my mentality to reach higher than I ever thought possible. Also, I am not a very good runner in the heat. I passed out at Hershey so I had to learn to hydrate.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss my teammates and coach. They have truly become family.
Do you have any advice for younger athletes?
Never let anyone tell you what you can do. Push the envelope and keep working hard. The effort you put in the sport will be all worth it in the end.
How have your coaches influenced your performances and your life goals overall?
Coach Lac has been a huge influence. He has continually pushed me harder knowing the potential I had. I could not have achieved what I did without his help. Who knew a slow middle school runner would be running at a Division I college. Thanks Lac!
What are your college plans?
I am running XC and track at Lehigh University.
Shout-Outs?
I would like to thank my parents, coach and teammates for all they have done for me.
Want to be featured in our Salute To Seniors series? Drop me a line: don@penntrackxc.com and answer the questions below! And if you can, point us to a pic or two or include them with your email. Make sure you have the right to use it, please.
