Here is the next entry in our new series on NJ MileSplit, with so many seniors heading off to bigger and better things we wanted to give everyone a chance to salute them one more time. As well as to invite those seniors to tell their stories from the past four years. If you would like to partake in these articles here is how, we'll be posting all June and July as they come in.
We've had a bunch submitted already! We'll be releasing them more often going forward thanks for sending in your stories and keep an eye out for when your answers publish.
Our next entry is from Grace Dwyer a state champion and Meet of Champions winner in the 3200 meter. She holds a personal best of 10:21.46 in the outdoor 3200 meter run. Dwyer had a great high school career among the state leaders right from her freshman start and was especially dominant in her junior season before dealing with an unfortunate piriformis injury her senior year. Below is a look at some of her story.
What was your most memorable race/throw/jump/vault/moment?
My most memorable race came my freshman year at the Mercer County Cross Country Championships. It was held at Washington's Crossing Park. It was such a big meet because all of the county teams were there! I won the meet with a time of 18:13. I not only surprised myself, but I think I surprised many other people. Though it was a big moment for me, it was also a big moment for my high school (Nottingham). I made my school proud.
Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
My biggest competition was Josette Norris and Mackenzie Barry in my freshman and sophomore years of high school. I raced them multiple times in the Group 3 meets and the Meet of Champions. They were great competitors and pushed me in all of the races we ran together. Both Mackenzie and Josette are so nice! I love seeing the results from their college races.
What was your greatest accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment was winning the 2015 Outdoor Meet of Champions in the 3200 during my junior year. I remember how badly I wanted that title... I was determined to win it. I will never forget my kick during the race. I took off at the 400 meter mark and finished really strong, finishing in 10:21. The best part was after the race when I saw my coach and my family. I gave everyone a hug and we all could not stop smiling. I remember crying a little because I was so overjoyed.
Here is the 2015 Girls Meet of Champions 3200 meter mentioned above.
If you could do it all over again, what would you change about your running career in high school?
I would honestly change nothing about my high school running career. As I look back on my career, I gave it my all in every practice and every race. I gave God the glory, and I have no regrets.
What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?
The most difficult obstacle I had to overcome was missing my entire senior cross country season because of a piriformis injury. I went through physical therapy, and I had to crosstrain to keep in shape. However, this challenge has made me a stronger runner and person. It showed me that no matter what life throws at you, keep persevering. Always trust in God's plans.
What will you miss the most?
There are many things I am going to miss about high school running. First, I am going to miss running for Nottingham. I have always loved representing my school and racing in a Northstar uniform. Next, I am going to miss my best friend Justina Eckhardt, who I met on the first day of cross country during freshman year. We share many memories from both XC/track. One of my favorite things is that she always cheers me on at Group meets and Meet of Champions.
What advice would you give to younger athletes?
-Give it your all everyday. Push yourself and be the best runner you can be. Trust me, the hard work pays off.
-The little things are actually the big things. Eating the right foods and getting the right amount of sleep are just as important as runs/workouts.
-Always listen to your coach. They know what's best for you.
-You are going to have your good and bad races. Embrace your good races and learn from the bad ones.
-If you have an injury, do everything you can to get yourself better. Have a positive attitude and remember that you will be running again very soon!
-Always be a good sport. When a race does not go your way, you should still congratulate your competitors and step away from the race with a smile. People will remember you by the way you treat others.
What influence has your coach had with respect to your performance and overall life goals?
My coach, Melissa Persichetti, has always been there for me. She pushed me through workouts and has always given me advice which made me a better runner. If I had a bad race, she would always tell me what to improve on. She showed me that mental toughness is one of the most important parts of being a runner. She has made me a stronger person.
What are your college plans?
I'm going to run for Furman University in the fall!!! I'm looking forward to helping the team become one of the best in the country. I can't wait to train with some of the top girls. GO PALADINS!!!
Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
First, I have to thank God, who has given me the gift of running. Next, I have to thank my mom, dad, and brother for all they do. Without all of you, I wouldn't be the runner and person I am today. Thank you for cheering me on at all of my meets. I love all of you so much. Lastly, thank you to all of my coaches (especially Coach Persichetti) and teammates. You all have always encouraged me. I will cherish all of the memories from over the past four years.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I just wanted to say that it's been one heck of a ride. I am going to miss high school running, but I cannot wait to begin a new chapter of my life.
One more thing... New Jersey is the best running state!!! NJ all day!!!
What was the funniest thing that happened during your running career?
