Kelly McCaskill '16 Recruiting Profile

Many coaches have told me that when I run a race it isn't only my ability to run the race but the amount of heart I leave on the track that makes me an athlete. I started to run because it felt like a challenge that could be accomplished. No matter if you accomplished what you wanted, you could always set a new goal and beat that one too. Every race felt like the same joy as getting 100% on a final exam or even accomplishing something you didn't think was possible. Running became an accomplishment for me; something I can work hard for and always strive to the finish line. No matter what my time was, I could always look back and find improvement in the race whether it is the 5k or even the 800m run.

I enjoy running no matter what the weather might look like. Running is my passion and I love to motivate others to run as well. It feels great when you can get people to run and have them experience the same feeling of accomplishment that you experience each race or even when you go for a run. Motivation and a healthy mind is the key to running. It isn’t about how muscular you might be or how long your legs are, but rather a healthy mind. Running is mental and that is the challenge of them all.