FEATURED ATHLETE +(/,$6&$7+2/,&+,*+6&+22/ written by VICTORIA CLARK photography by KATHRYN GILL Some of Lauren’s greatest achievements: Qualify for state all four years in cross-country All-Conference sophomore year All-District and qualified for sectionals in the 4x400, 4x800, and open 800 3rd at state in the 4x400 relay One of her most memorable moments is cross-country dis-tricts her freshman year. “I had to be top 30 to qualify for state. I remember crossing the finish line in a huge pack of people not knowing if I had made it or not. Then my mom came run-ning up to tell me I finished 29th and qualified by 2 seconds. I will never forget that moment.” Her parents, Rob and Leslie, have taught her how to value faith and apply it to every area of her life. She expresses gratitude for her family’s support, especially the little things, like her dad wishing her good luck at 4 a.m. before leaving the house. Her mom is her cross-country coach and has had a pro-found influence on the athlete she is today. “Her unwavering support, both inside and outside of the sport, inspires me to be the best I can be in sports. But I also know that at the end of the day, there is so much more to me than just my athletic abilities.” Lauren’s parents commented on how proud they are, “Lauren is an amazing young woman who values her faith and her family. She is one of the most determined people we know, and she always gives her very best in everything she does. We could not be more proud of the young woman she has become.” Looking to what’s ahead is one of Lauren’s strong suits. After high school, she plans to attend college and continue running cross-country and track while pursuing a degree in architec-ture. Her tenacity will keep her running far. 47
Sports Locker January/February 2025: Page 47
