CJ Albertson

Buchanan HS

2012

 

Best times in a 5K and 3 Mile race?

5k: 14:51 @ Woodward Park in the 2010 California State Championships.

 

Tell us how your training is going?

Summer training has been going great. I feel like I'm in way better shape than I have been any other summer. I've gotten a good base, and have felt very strong and smooth on some of the harder workouts we've done. I'm excited for the racing season to start to see what I can really do.

 

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

Individually I want to win the State Meet this year. It's always been a dream of mine to be a State Champ so I can't wait to battle it out on November 26th at Woodward Park with the best from California. From there I want to compete for a National Title at either Footlocker or NXN.

As far as my team goals go, I would like our team to win the State Title as well. As much as I want to win individually, nothing is sweeter than standing up on that podium with the rest of your team. We have 4 of our top 5 coming back this year, along with a solid addition to the team, and several guys stepping it up over the summer. Another main goal for me is to be leader on the team. I want to do everything I can to help everyone be the best they can be so we can achieve our goals. More importantly, I just want to lead by my attitude. By that I mean I want to have a positive attitude so that our team can train within a positive atmosphere. I love all the guys on my team, and my goal is to have each one us have a fun year and truly enjoy the sport and every minute of practice and meets.

 

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I've been running since 4th grade. At the start of 4th grade I attended a new school and had wanted to play football. (Since at my other school you could play football in 4th grade.) However, you had to be in 5th grade to play football there so I went out for Cross Country since it was the only sport I could do. That season I went undefeated and since I liked winning, I kept with it.. I've loved running ever since.

 

Will you be competing out of state this season?

Only at Foot Locker or NXN

 

Favorite course to run in California?

Woodward Park. It's my home course and the home of the state meet.

 

Toughest course in California?

It's California and I'm fine with hills.. so none.

 

What is your favorite cross country race so far in your high school career?

Last year at State Meet. I pr'd by 28 seconds, set a Junior class record on the course, finished 4th, and qualified for NXN. It was a great race, and hopefully I can top it this year.

 

Favorite Cross Country memory?

Going to NXN my freshman year with my team.

 

When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?

I just like hanging out and being with friends. I love all sports so playing a basketball game or something with my friends always makes for a good time.

 

Favorite quote?

"Sometimes when I race, my mind is full of doubts... who will come in second... who will come in third..."
--Noureddine Morceli, former World and Olympic Champion 1500m