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Ask A Ute: Amanda Mergaert (NCAA Championships Edition)
11/16/2010 12:00 AM | Cross Country
Nov. 16, 2010
For the second consecutive week, Ask A Ute's featured student-athlete is Amanda Mergaert (cross country). Mergaert was named to the NCAA All-Mountain Region team last week after finishing ninth in last Saturday's race at Rose Park Golf Course and returns for more questions from Ute fans heading into the national meet on Monday, Nov. 22 in Terre Haute, Ind.
UtahUtes.com's weekly chat is designed to get Utah fans interacting with Ute student-athletes. Simply email your questions on any topic you choose to Ask A Ute Thursday through Sunday of each week. After being screened by athletic department personnel, the best questions and the student-athletes' responses will be posted along with your name and hometown at UtahUtes.com each week and will also be included in the weekly Ute Update.
From Sue in Salt Lake City
What will be on your breakfast menu before the big race?
"When I am nervous for a race, I eat a lot. I like continental breakfast so our hotel usually works out in my favor. Typically two hours before the race, I will have oatmeal, a Belgium waffle with peanut butter, a muffin, yogurt, and milk or water."
Also from Sue in Salt Lake City
Do you have any superstitions about your racing?
"I used to have so many. If I had a good bib number, I was convinced I would have a good race. And I used to have a lucky pair of socks that I had to wear on race day. I don't really believe in superstitions now. I am confident that my training will lead me to a good race even if I am not wearing my Old Navy socks."
From Darren in Evanston, Wyo.
Did you expect to reach this level of success so early in your career at Utah?
"I didn't expect to, but I've always set high goals for myself. I was raised to believe that if you want something bad enough and you are willing to work tirelessly to achieve a goal, anything is possible. So at the beginning of the year, I always make a list of the things I want to accomplish and I remind myself of my goals every day. And as any runner or athlete knows, you need other people to help you. I am extremely grateful for my supportive family, friends, athletic trainers, coaches and teammates."
From Alice in Detroit
Are you looking forward to coming back to the Midwest to compete at nationals?
"Yes! Not only because my family will once again be able to cheer me on, but also because I will be back at sea level on a course that I have already run on this season."
From Tom in San Jose State
What was your most memorable moment from last Saturday's race?
"The day as a whole was very memorable. There are a few things that stand out to me, such as my family and friends cheering, my athletic trainer [Hanah Kropf] waiting for me at the finish line, and my coach [Kyle Kepler] getting really excited. Having everyone there made the day so special."
The NCAA Championships will start Monday, Nov. 22 at 10:08 a.m. MT. A live webcast will be available at NCAA.com.
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