Future Stars Spotlight: Amanda Vestri

 

As part of the Future Stars series presented by Hoka One One, MileSplit is highlighting some of the top underclassmen cross country runners throughout the country. In this athlete spotlight, we feature Webster Thomas High School (NY) Sophomore Amanda Vestri. As a freshman, Amanda placed top 25 at McQuaid, States, and NXN-Regionals. She returns as one of the top 5 girls in sophomore year, and one of the top ranked runners out of Section 5.  On the track, Vestri took 5th and 4th respectively in the 3000 meter run at Indoor and Outdoor State Quals.

 

Interview with Webster Thomas High School (NY) Sophomore Amanda Vestri

 

Last season was your first XC season as a varsity athlete, however, you ran track with the HS team as an 8th grader, making Indoor states.  How was it being the youngest person on the team then?

Being the youngest person on the team at that time was a little intimidating at first.  I had no idea what to expect but it turned out to be a great experience.  It did not really sink in until after competing as to how much of an accomplishment it was for me to make the state level as an 8th grader.

 

At States last year in cross, you took second overall for the freshmen class.  What did that inform you about your fitness, and ability to handle big meets?

My fitness and ability, at that time, was probably at my peak for cross country season.  Although I was nervous about the State championship meet, the minute the gun went off I was having a fantastic time running against great competition.  I have handled the big meets much better now with more confidence, after having that experience.

 

The Rochester Area seems to be have been a hotbed for tough competition over the past few years.  How has that tradition influenced you?

The tough competition that comes out of Rochester has worked to my advantage.  When you have great competition, you are driven to perform better.  It is easier to get good times and PR’s.

 

You transitioned last year well from XC to Track, placing top 5 in the 3000m both at Indoor and Outdoor State Qualifiers.  Do you prefer the longer distances and why?

I definitely prefer the longer distances.  I am trying to develop more fast-twitched muscles but as of right now, the longer distance is my strong suit because I can keep a fast pace for a longer time and there is time to kick it up a notch at the gun lap.  I have to work harder in the 800/1500 meter races because those require perfect racing strategies as their isn’t much time to make up ground around the track.

 

How has your summer training been going, with perfect weather conditions in the area?

My summer training was great.  We have really been focusing on getting to feel the pain to prepare for the tougher races.  I have been training more for those painful last half miles when we are kicking it in after our quads have been torn up by the hills.

 

How do you motivate yourself when you are heading into big races?

I listen to pump-up music to get motivated.   I usually get a quick pep talk from my dad as well. “Try your best and that’s going to be good enough.”

 

What are some of the meets you most like to race in?

I get really pumped up to run at McQuaid and Sectionals. I have to say that Nike Cross Regionals is my favorite.

 

Who have been some of your biggest influences in how you run and how you train?

My coach, dad and brother influence me a lot in how I run and train.  My coach is one of the greatest people I know and his training techniques push me to perform my best with no limitations. My dad is always encouraging me and is the driving force behind my performance.  In addition to his pep talks and healthy eating tips, he is along my side when I am trudging around the track in 2 feet of snow and running hills in ankle weights, all of which have made me the runner I am today.   And, my old brother (even though he doesn’t like admitting it), is my biggest fan and supporter.  I look up to him because he is an incredible runner and probably the only reason I am even a runner today.

 

Do you have any goals, either time or performance, for the upcoming season?

I would like to go sub 17:50 at McQuaid this year.  (I rant 18:15 last year).  I would also like to place top 10 at State and NXR.

 

What’s one interesting fact about yourself, outside of running?

I love animals and taking care of them.  I would like to become a veterinarian.