Salute To Seniors: Anna Stouffer Of Chapel Hill


Name:

Anna Stouffer

School:

Chapel Hill High School

What was your most memorable race/moment?

My most memorable race moment was when our 4x8 team ran 9:14.07 at Apex Relays and were ranked 4h in the nation. The best part was after the race, seeing the other three girls so happy and knowing that the work we put in year-round had really paid off.


Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?

My biggest competitor has been myself and just trying to be the best I can be.

What was your greatest accomplishment?

My greatest accomplishment would be the be the relationships that grew between me and my teammates and how close of a team we became.

If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

I would be less conscious about body types and restricted eating because food is fuel, and not eating leads to injury.

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

The most difficult obstacle for me was to learn to love running again after I felt heartbroken by it.

What will you miss the most?

I'll miss my teammate, Madi Marvin, the most. I really love all my teammates but Madi is special because we ran side-by-side for four years and all of our PRs are within three seconds of each other and there isn't an ounce of unhealthy competition in our relationship. She is the sweetest and most generous human being and I'll miss running by her side.

What advice would you give to younger athletes?

Be mindful in training, not mindless. Too many people rush around to get in their runs and cross training but don't really think about how this is helping their physical and mental health. Do what makes you feel good and listen for what your body his craving.

What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?

My coaches are amazing, Joan and Dave. They have taught us to be mindful, work hard, not make excuses, help our teammates, have fun and always try to be the best. They are so good at having individual relationships with everyone on the team and are SO experienced. They are like my second parents.

What are your college plans?

I'm running cross country and track at Johns Hopkins next year.

Who would you like to say thank you to?

My parents and siblings for being supportive and coming to my races. Katherine Dokholyan for being a humble and courageous front-runner. Megan Marvin for being faster than everyone and so kind.