Six Days 'Till Bulldog Cross Country

Asheville, N.C.- The countdown continues with only six days until the UNC Asheville men's and women's cross country teams open their 2016 season with the Western Carolina Invitational. To help fans prepare for this season, meet senior Amy Castle.

Castle comes to Asheville from Barnesville Ohio where she attended St. Clairsville High school. She has competed in both cross country and track and field for the Bulldogs for the past three years. In 2015, Castle replaced her previous best time in the 5K by running 19:54.7 early in the season. She then went on to better that at the Big South Conference Championships with a time of 19:44.8. Castle also competed in the 6K at the DI Pre-Nationals posting a time of 23:45.0.

What is you Major:

Biology

What is your favorite part about UNC Asheville?

I love the sense of community

What are your post-school plans?

Graduate school

Why did you choose Asheville?

I chose Asheville because of the people I met on my recruiting visit. The team was welcoming and they supported each other. Also, the food here is amazing!

How long have you been running?

I've been running since 8th grade.

Who has been your biggest influence on the field?

My biggest influence was my sister Jennie, who ran for the University of Akron. She understands more than anyone how hard it is to be a student athlete.

What are three things you can't live without?

Friends, family, and coffee

What's your favorite food?

Sushi

What nicknames do you have?

Unfortunately nothing cool, just Amy

Do you have a favorite class you've taken here?

Zoology

When I'm not on the course/ track, I am…

Studying, sleeping, eating.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

Being together with my team

What's something most people may not know about you?

I originally played soccer and traveled the country playing for several club teams. However, I suffered from back injuries and decided to switch to running.

Do you have a favorite place you've visited?

Definitely the west coast. Oregon and Washington have some of the most beautiful landscapes I've ever seen.