In the hot seat with Jami Patton. This week’s guest is Julianne Hoekzema, a senior marketing major and member of the cross-country team. Hoekzema placed second overall at the Dayton 5K Sept. 8, and first in the college division.
How did you get into running?
I started running track in the third grade because my Dad had recently taken over the track team for my grade school and we thought it would be a good idea since my favorite thing to do in soccer practice was run.
What keeps you motivated to run everyday?
Knowing that the girls that I compete against on the weekend are doing it and it is what it takes to compete at this level, and I like to be competitive.
What are some of your personal goals for the season?
Set a personal record (PR) in the 5K and the 6K. Finish in the top of the conference as well as the regional and lead my team to the national race.
What was the best advice you’ve ever received?
The will to win means nothing without the will to prepare.
Do you have specific rituals before a meet?
No not really. I just try to relax, and I always try to make sure that I start my warm up one hour to the dot before the race.
How do you want to be remembered at NKU and on its cross-country team?
I would like to be remembered as a leader and a friend to all my teammates and my coach, as well as someone who took school as seriously as my sport.
What are your plans after graduation?
I spent last spring semester as a co-op at Procter ‘ Gamble and I hope to continue working there upon graduation, and in addition to that I would love to coach cross-country and track.
What would you say to anyone who wants to join NKU’s cross country team?
Definitely do it! It’s a lot of fun but be prepared to work hard.
What do you think of when you’re running?
It depends what kind of run it is. But most of the time I think of things I have to do after I finish running. During a race, I do a whole lot of praying.
What is one thing most people don’t know about being a cross-country runner?
Running is a lot of fun.