Our first senior in our Salute to Seniors Series is Ella Zeigler from James Hubert Blake. Ella has had an amazing high school career winning many races and championships. However nothing may have been more impressive than her 2022 state championship Triple, winning the 1600 (5:04), 3200 (10:59), and 800 (2:15) races all in the same day! Congrats Ella and best of luck to you in college!
Name: Ella Zeigler
School: James Hubert Blake
What was your most memorable race/throw/jump/vault/moment? Why is that?
The Championship 5k at New Balance Nationals Outdoor 2022 was my most memorable race. Not only did I have a huge pr and become an All-American, but I experienced a meet atmosphere like no other. I felt like my hard work from my high school years was recognized with this race.
Was there a certain moment or breakthrough race/meet when you realized you would be able to compete at a high level?
My 3k at the US Air Force Hispanic Games 2022. I was already in the recruiting process and knew I would be running D1 then, but this race revealed to me that I could be competitive in "bigger" collegiate meets, and that I had promise in longer distance track races.
What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?
A major bump in the road during my training was my eating disorder. I had to stop running completely for an entire year in order to heal and recover. But doing so allowed me to come back stronger and faster than ever before. And, of course, Covid was a major obstacle for every athlete.
If you are writing a letter to your younger freshman self, what advice might you give them?
Quit cheerleading and join cross country!
If you had to pick: Track and Field or Cross Country, and why? (If you only run Track, then don't worry about explaining why).
Track and Field because the track is flat!!
What are your post-high school or college plans? If Running in college, explain why you picked that school.
I will be running for the University of South Carolina this Fall. I chose UofSC because fell in love with the city, campus, and team atmosphere. The SEC is a competitive conference that I know will push me to my highest potential! Also, the academic opportunities for the school are incredible and will set me up for success in my post-college endeavors.
What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?
I always have a Cool Mint Chocolate Clif Bar before I race!
Name the top Maryland Cross Country or Track moment(s) you have witnessed. Could be by the level of greatness or just something that really stood out to you.
Juliette Whittaker breaking Mary Cain's 800m record and representing Maryland on the big stage!
Who would you like to say "thank you" to?
I would like to say "thank you" to Coach Petros for always believing in me and staying by my side throughout all my seasons.
Is there anything else you would like to mention that stands out over the past 4 years?
Our class, the class of 2022, is genuinely the most talented class of xctf athletes I've witnessed!!
Watch Ella run 10:50 at the Indoor East Coast Invite here:
