Name: Alana Hurley
School: Saguaro High School
PRs
1600m - 5:41.15 @ Pioneer Invitational
3200m - 12:18.22 @ AIA Division III State Championships
5km - 20:26.00 @ Doug Conley Invitational
As an upperclassman, Alana Hurley has been a reliable point girl for the Saguaro distance squad. Hurley placed 5th at the Crossroad Sectional Championships and led the Lady Sabercats to victory. During the track and field season, she placed 3rd in the 3200m at the Scottsdale Distance Classic and clocked a PR of 5:41 for 1600m at the Pioneer Invitational. She capped off her career at the AIA State Championships where she placed 16th in the 3200m and finished 23rd for the 1600m run. We wish her the best as she continues her career for the CUI Eagles.
Where are you from and when did you begin running?
I was born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona. I began running in 6th grade, but didn't fall in love with the sport (or try very hard at it) until freshman year.
What was your most memorable race?
My hands down favorite race was Sectionals during cross country my junior year. I went into the race ranked 6th, I finished second, and our team won overall by one point! It came down to our 6th runner. An exciting race for sure!
Did you listen to music before competing? If so what's on your playlist?
I don't really listen to music before my races, I like to think about my race or talk with my teammates. In general, though, I'm a fan of artists like Lil Peep, Lana Del Rey, and Billie Elilish.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
I really enjoyed getting to race Haley Smith from Desert Mountain! She's always been so kind and supportive to me. I also liked getting to compete against my friends Aylin Quintero and Fernanda Escobedo from Cibola. They are super funny and great competition.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
Helping my team win three sectional titles is something I am so proud of. Definitley an amazing thing to work towards something with other people.
If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would have stopped comparing myself to others!! It took me a long time to be happy with my PRs, and not beat myself up for not being as fast as some of my friends. I realize now that it's so important to trust the process, and recognize any improvement as amazing, even if you don't improve as much as you like. Slow progress is still progress.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
Sophomore year I was sidelined for 8 months with a hip fracture. I didn't have a sophomore track season because of it. It set me back to square one training wise and bouncing back from that took a long time. It was so frustrating but it has made me a better person.
What will you miss the most about competing for your team?
I will miss my team so much. My teammates are honestly some of my best friends. I'll miss jumping into my pool with them during hot afternoon doubles. I'll miss blasting awful music with them on the bus rides home from meets. I'll miss my teammates and their constant encouragement and support of me. I love them so much.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?Enjoy every moment. It goes by so fast. I feel like just yesterday I was a freshman asking for rides home and racing in my trainers. These four years of running were some of the best, and I will forever cherish the memories.
What is the most valuable lesson that you've learned from your coach?
Sometimes you have to kick down some doors to get to where you want. Obstacles are always there, and you just have to persevere and never give up. Sounds cheesy I know, but it's true.
What are your college plans? Have you decided on a major?
I will be attending Concordia University in Irvine, California and will be double majoring in biology and chemistry.
What was the deciding factor that made you choose Concordia University?
I loved the small school, the beautiful location, the team chemistry, and the coach. It really felt like home from the first time I set foot on campus. I can see myself thriving there.
What do you like about the Eagle program or Coach Bloomfield's coaching styles?
Coach Bloomfield does a really good job of personalizing his training. He really looks at what works for each individual and trains them based off of that.
Who would you like to thank for your success in high school?
I owe the biggest thank you to my family, who was with me every step of the way. My team, who somehow made every moment, whether a painful workout, long bus ride, or early practice fun and worthwhile. My high school coach, Coach Bailey, who saw and continues to support me and believes in me more than I believe in myself.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
Thank you Milesplit for amazing coverage!!
Fun Stuff!
If you could have any superpower what would it be?
I would want to be able shapeshift into any animal.
What's the last movie you watched?
Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith
What's your favorite sports team?
My mom is from Chicago so I grew up a huge Cubs fan!
If you could go on a long run with any professional athlete who would you pick?
I really would love to run with Emma Coburn. She seems like a really fun person and I'd love to get to know her!
What are you most excited to do when you get to Irvine?
I'm really excited to meet new people and hang out with my new teammates! Also, I'm really hyped for the beach obviously.
