University of North Carolina Ashville Athletics
Four Days 'Till Bulldog Cross Country
08.30.2016 | Cross Country
ASHEVILLE, N.C.- Only four days stand between the UNC Asheville men's and women's cross country teams and their first meet of the 2016 season at Western Carolina this Saturday, September 3. In order to prepare fans for the season, meet senior Lauren Etheridge.
Etheridge is fairly new to Asheville's cross country team, having starting only last season. Etheridge was recruited as a sprinter/hurdler but over the course of her career, she has transitioned into middle distance/cross country. In her junior Outdoor season, Lauren competed in the 800m run for the Bulldogs. Despite battling injuries throughout the season, Etheridge posted a season-best time of 2:30.74 at the Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket Invitational.
What is you Major:
Health and Wellness
What is your favorite part about UNC Asheville?
I love that you can be you and it doesn't matter what others think. We are all unique in our own ways and people here accept that. Also, I have enjoyed being part of the track and cross country team.
What are your post-school plans?
I'm not completely sure. I have a few ideas, but have yet to make any decisions. I'm definitely interested in athletics, nutrition, and fitness. So possibly coaching track/xc or become a personal trainer to name a few.
Why did you choose Asheville?
I chose Asheville because I loved the mountain and unique atmosphere that is brought to the school. The size of the school is great. Your professors know you by name and you get more one on one help if needed. Also, being able to run track helped in my decision as well.
How long have you been running xc?
I have been running competitively since I was in the 7th grade. I have a unique background in running because when I was in high school I was a sprinter/hurdler so I only ran cross country my junior senior year and was recruited by UNCA to run hurdles and sprints, but then transitioned to more mid distance running where I then also ran cross country my junior senior year in college as well.
Who has been your biggest influence in running?
My biggest influence when it comes to running is hard to say because I have so many people who have helped me along the way. My family, my high school coaches Lamont Hayes and Tony Dai who I still go to for help and advice. Also my college coaches Joel Williams and Jesse Norman who have stuck it out and tried to find the right training for me since I tend to get injured quite a bit. But, I think the biggest influence for me is knowing that no matter what, I train and race for a bigger purpose than myself. God has given me so much and I race for Him. Through the amount of injuries and disappointments I found hope because I know God has bigger and better plans for me and these setbacks have been put in my life so I can have a bigger comeback when the right time comes whether that is running related or something more.
What are three things you can't live without?
I can't live without karate, running, and most of all God.
What's your favorite food?
Its hard to say my favorite food, but my favorite meal is salmon, sweet potatoes, and broccoli.
When I'm not on the course/ track, I am…
either doing karate, baking, or looking into health and fitness research and material.
What are you most looking forward to this season?
I'm coming off of an injury so I will most likely not compete during cross, but I'm looking forward to getting another chance to do what I love by training and preparing to race later during indoor and outdoor track. I'm also looking forward to see how the team progresses because we are really young, but I think we can do some great things.
What's something most people may not know about you?
I'm a twin.
