Name: Brooklyn Christofis
School: Desert Vista High School
Grade: Freshman
When did you begin competitive running?
I have been running since I could remember. From the moment I walked, I ran. My first competition was in 3rd grade, when I started training for 5k's in Girls on the Run.
Have you participated in other sports?
Soccer was a big part of my life for 10 years, however in 8th grade I decided to focus on running and no longer played on a competitive soccer team.
(Photo by Alan Versaw)
What does a typical training week look like for you?
1-2 days are mid-distance steady (50 mins) on flat and/or trails. After, 5-6 x 150m sprints in racing footwear or a mixture of strides. This depends where we are in the season and what we are trying to accomplish. Another day in the week is a long steady run (89-95 mins) with a built in tempo at some point of the run. Sometimes we do 800 meter reps (3-5) in the grass at the end of the long run. 1-2 days are specific track workouts on the grass/track combos of specific distances and paces. We also do relaxed recovery runs with 150 meters of high intensity sprints (5-6) depending on the day.
Do you cross train during the season?
I do 2-3 days of cross training throughout the week consisting of workouts in pool. For example, one set is 3-5 min high knees w/ weight vest underwater in 30 second intervals.
What is something that helps you mentally prepare for a race?
I usually try to forget about the race until I warm-up. Races tend to give me a bit of anxiety ...which is totally not a bad thing, but too much can be bad. After I warm up I assess what I am trying to do, and visualize my finish. All I do is focus from then on until I start. I also remember that I have been truly blessed and I am here to race, not run.
What's your favorite XC meet?
My favorite XC race so far is NXR. I love colder weather and environment of the race. Also, the race is a faster course which is always a plus!
What is your favorite Pre-Race meal?
I really like eating different types of wraps. For example, Chicken Caesar wraps are one of my favorites.
What is your season goal?
I would be happy to finish the season with low to mid 17's for my 5k. I don't like putting goals because I don't like limiting myself, but if I had to say something, I would definitely want low 17's. It'll be a challenge!
Is there a certain inspirational quote you find motivating ?
You need to give 100% effort into it or else it is a waste of your time. Steve Prefontaine said it perfectly, "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift".
Do you have a favorite pro runner/athlete?
I love being outside. Fishing, camping, and anything like that really interests me. One of my favorite things to do is long boarding. There's just something about long boarding that is just kind of freeing. You just cruise. I have also been playing the cello for 3 years now.
