|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Science Hill’s Hutchins Finishes 9th at Foot Locker Nationals; Earns All-American Status
by STEVE WILMOTH TriCitiesSports.com December 8, 2018 SAN DIEGO, CA -- Jenna Hutchins began watching Foot Locker cross country videos as an eight-year-old. Saturday many across the region and nation were watching Hutchins race in the 2018 Foot Locker Cross Country National Championships. “I’m honored to represent the South team and Science Hill High School,” said Hutchins. “It’s been a dream of mine to run in the 40th Annual Foot Locker National Championship. “I grew up watching this race so it meant a lot to me.” The Science Hill freshman blistered the course at Balboa Park in 17:43, crossing in ninth place to earn All-American honors. “I am so happy to have placed in the top ten,” added Hutchins. “I’m so appreciative of my parents, coaches, teammates and Science Hill High School for encouraging me to do my best.” Hutchins Foot Locker experience began with an eighth-place finish in the South Regional in Charlotte two weeks ago. This time Hutchins was the top South finisher in the race. The national experience began on arrival in Southern California on Thursday. “It’s been an exciting couple of days meeting so many established coaches and Olympic and Professional runners,” noted Hutchins. “Foot Locker has been amazing. We have been treated so well.” Mindful of a couple of tough pulls traversing the same hill in the race, Hutchins was conservative initially. But by the end of the first mile, she was running smoothly in the top 15. Comfortable with hills, the East Tennessee native made her moves on both trips up the nearly quarter-mile climb. The first netted two spots to 12th and the second near the end of the race pushed Hutchins into the top ten. “I felt like because I’d run so many hills this season, that was an edge for me and I wanted to take advantage of that experience,” explained Hutchins. “I was feeling good so i went for and was able to get a few positions.” The race ends a remarkable freshman season for Hutchins which included winning the TSSAA Large School state championship last month in Nashville. But it’s one that Hutchins will work hard to experience again. “I plan to keep working hard so hopefully I can return next year.”      |
|
| Sitemap |