Running to the Finish Line: Eryca Fawkes’s Olympic Meet

Katarina Marceta, Editor-in-Chief|August 9, 2019

One of ACP’s newest freshman, Eryca Fawkes, is quite the athlete. New to ACP, she recently managed to acquire a spot in the USA Track and Field (USATF) National Junior Olympics held last month.

Photo courtesy of Eryca Fawkes

Eryca obtained her spot by competing in the state and regional qualifiers held in June. While at state, she placed 2nd in the 3000 and 1500 meter runs, which then qualified her for the regional meet. At regionals she effectively managed to place 3rd in the 3000 meter run and 4th in the 1500 meter run.

As a top five finisher in the state and regional meets, Eryca was automatically eligible for the USATF National Junior Olympic Meet in California at California State University.

During the week of July 22nd, Eryca competed and successfully placed 17th in the nation in the 3000 meter run (with a personal best of 11:15.25) and 28th in the 1500 meter run (with 5:22.02). This itself is an amazing feat for a teen (a freshman!) to complete, which is why we had to interview Eryca.

This is what she had to say:

How long have you been running? When and why did you start?

A: I ran club track for a year, but overall since kindergarten. I started off in running club and at first, I hated it. I only walked but I was naturally good at it, so I worked it out and then my friend invited me to club track, and I became better.

What do you enjoy the most about partaking in national/state meets?

A: Getting my name out there. It’s possible that I can receive a scholarship for my feats.

What is your favorite part about running?

A: It’s super relaxing.

Photo courtesy of Eryca Fawkes.

Can you tell me a little about your experience at the USATF National Junior Olympic Meet?

A: It seemed like it was going to be really huge, but it wasn’t at all. My friend placed 8th by two seconds in her race. Mine wasn’t as close, but I got 17th and 28th in my categories.

What do you do to prepare for a meet?

A: I don’t really prepare well. For example, some people have routines. I just show up and do what I need to.

What are some tips you’d give to aspiring runners?

A: First of all, make sure you warm up.  A lot of people who run don’t warm up at all. They don’t stretch and that will lead to injuries. For example, my foot is hurting currently, so I’m taking a break from running for a little. Just be careful, and if you need a break, take a break!

Thank you so much to Eryca for taking the time out of class to answer these questions for us and congratulations on your wins! We wish you a speedy recover, and hopefully we’ll get to watch you run cross country soon in the fall!