Section 4 keeps on heating up. For the past two years, there has been a drought in state level competition for the girls of Section 4, with the highest placing athlete taking 50th in 2012, and 56th in 2013. That looks to change this year, as several candidates are eyeing All-State. Jessica Lawson, a freshman from Corning, is looking to be just that change. She just came out the fastest at her local championships, the STAC, and looks to keep rolling through the season. We chatted with Jessica about how her season has been going, and what may be on the horizon.
Quick Facts-
Top Speed Rating: 145
State Meets Attended: 0
Notable Mark: The only freshman in the states Top 40 runners.
Before we begin, congratulations on your debut season. As only a freshmen, you have competed very well, ranked fifth in the state. What has it been like to come into HS cross country, and have such success.
It’s been a great experience so far. I’ve learned a lot about competing in big races and gained a lot of confidence. Before the Queensbury race, I really wasn’t sure how I would do in a competitive high school race, but after that race I felt much more self-assured. I think that experience has helped me continue to race well throughout the season so far.
Your first three races of the year have been the biggest Invitationals of the season, (Queensbury, McQuaid, Manhattan). How did you prepare mentally, knowing each of the races would have well over 5000 runners competing?
Last year at JO Cross Country Nationals in Albuquerque, New Mexico I was able to hear Olympian Leo Manzano speak. One of thing he said was, going into races there will be competitors with faster times than you, but focus on yourself and your own race and see what you can do. I try to remember his advice when I race and focus on the goals that I set and try to execute those goals despite the large field.
Queensbury serves as the state meet course this year, where you placed second overall. Do you think the course plays into your strengths, and how?
I think that Queensbury is a really nice course to run on because it’s interesting and fun with a fast dirt terrain and a couple decent hills followed by flat, fast sections that get you back into your race pace. I think the fact that the Queensbury course has a couple hills plays into my strengths.
At McQuaid, you again placed very well, taking fifth in the seeded race. Your team also took 4th in the team scoring. How have some of the other members of your team helped you develop as a runner?
All of my teammates have been supportive and motivating, ever since summer training. My teammates have helped me develop into a confident runner by sometimes making me lead workouts, or having me set the pace. They have also helped me believe in myself as a runner and believe in our team.
For the Manhattan Invite, you again ran very well, taking seventh in a star studded field. What was it like after the race, knowing you placed top ten in a multi-state Elite field?
I was very happy and honored to have been able to race some of the super elite girls like Kennedy Weisner and Courtney Smith. Finishing in the top ten was an exciting achievement that I am proud of. Before the season my dad/coach told me top 50 would be great in Eastern States, so I’m very happy with my finish.
The competition is strong in Section 4 this year, with Elmira's Abby Wheeler running very well also. Head to head, you both have won once. How does this elevated competition help you develop as an athlete?
It is great having Abby in my section and getting to race her so often. It definitely motivates me to try and be the best runner I can be, knowing that one of the top runners in NY is in my section.
As you transition into your championship season, how does the focus shift in workouts? Are they more strength based, or speed based?
Our workouts are based on maintaining the strength we have developed, but tapering the workouts a little bit and adding in some speed. This is my first post season so I’ll have to see how this all works out.
Your team is top ranked in Class B in the state, as well as on the edge for the overall state rankings. What has it been like to come into such a successful program, and being able to contribute as a freshmen?
It’s fun because all of the girls on the team are focused and talented. It’s nice to go to the big meets like McQuaid and Manhattan and come away with such respectable team finishes, and know that I helped the team achieve this. It really keeps me motivated when the race gets tough, to think that I’m not running completely for myself, but that I need to race well and race tough for my team.
Who has been your biggest supporter, or biggest influence this season?
My biggest supporters have defiantly been my immediate family and grandparents. They have supported me from the very beginning, whether it’s taking me to meets, practice, or running with me. They have always been there for me encouraging, pushing and believing in me. The last two years I raced Junior High XC races in PA and have been inspired and greatly influenced by Kennedy Weisner’s talent and fast times.
Quick Questions:
Favorite Course
So far my favorite course has been the Queensbury Course.
Favorite Team Bonding Moment
My favorite team bonding moments so far has been the fun van ride to Queensbury and the overnight trips.
Specific Pre-Race Routine?
I always do a light run before my race, I think about my training and goals, after that I spike up and do some speed D with my teammates and a few stride outs. Then our coaches give us a brief pep talk, we gather into a circle and the older girls lead us in a quick prayer.
Teammate Shoutout
Teammate shoutout to Mia Bates, a senior team member that had an amazing race at Queensbury and is currently struggling with some health issues that prevent her from running at all. She has been an amazing team leader and motivator for me. She has come to all the dual meets that she couldn’t race in and cheered us on, supporting us and motivating us to do our best.
