As the 2013 Track and Field season gets underway, we will be highlighting some of the top athletes in each event.
Journal Questions:
Name: McKenna Renfro
High School: Xavier College Preparatory
Year of Graduation: 2014
Track and Field PR's:
HJ: 5'4"
TJ: 34'3"
LJ: 15'2"
When did you first get involved with track and field? How long have you been running:
I first got involved with track and field my freshman year. The Xavier track and field coaches noticed my potential to become a great track and field athlete throughout my freshman volleyball and basketball seasons.
What is a typical training week like for you?
A typical training week for me consists of a sprinting workout on Mondays, technique and jumping exercises throughout the week, Tuesdays and Thursdays are weight-lifting days, and Sundays are rest.
What are your goals for the upcoming track season?
My goals for the upcoming track season include achieving in the top 3 at state for high jump. I set a goal for myself at the beginning of my track season that no matter what, I would always medal in my event at every meet.
How do you prepare yourself mentally for a race? Do you have any superstitions?
Before a race or a competition, I take some time for myself to think about what I am coming out here to do and why I am doing it. I know that when I step out on track I have to give it all that I’ve got or else it wasn't worth giving. It takes a lot of focus and concentration, as well as believing in yourself-- confidence!
What does your season look like and will you be competing in any out of state track meets during the season or post high school season?
This season you"ll see me at State competing in the high jump and hopefully standing on the podium achieving what I set out for, a medal. This year will be my third year at state and I am seeking to also compete in the triple jump and 4x100 shuttle hurdles this year at state. You can see me at the Arcadia Invitational in April competing in the high jump and 4x100 shuttle hurdle relay.
What message would you tell younger runners who aspire to be at the top?
Don't ever stop doing what you love. If it's running, don't give yourself any limitations because if you do, the only thing that's going to pass you is your window of opportunity.
If you had to attribute your success to one thing, what would it be?
I think my dad can be mainly attributed to my success. I don't think he's ever missed one of my races or competitions. He has been my biggest fan on and off the track. There's nothing more motivational than a pep talk from him before a meet.
Do you have role models or mentors in track and field?
My coach, Mo Oliver, is a huge role model in track and field. His accomplishments alone are more than admirable, but he has this mentality that I can always do better and that has made me believe that I can and I won't stop.
How many events do you compete in and which event is your favorite?
I compete in six events-- high jump, long jump, triple jump, 4x4, 4x100 shuttle hurdles, and 200 meters. My favorite event is the high jump by far. I wouldn't trade anything for the thrill you receive before a high jump competition. A lot of emotions are put into that event and it also takes a lot of concentration. You definitely have to be physically and mentally fit
What are 3 things we don't know about you?
1. I am left handed
2. I play basketball
3. I have never eaten a hamburger in my life!
Quick 7:
Favorite Pre-race Meal?
Pasta
Favorite TV show or movie?
Criminal Minds
Favorite Meet?
Chandler Rotary
Celebrity Crush?
Nick Jonas
Perfect temperature to compete in?
90 degrees; not to hot, not too cold
Favorite song?
Sky is the Limit by the Notorious B.I.G.
Favorite quote/or saying?
"Everything the light touches is our kingdom."