This week we had the privilege of having Whitni Orton Morgan come to our practice to speak about her experiences with running and mental health.
Whitni was a 4-time track and cross country state champion at Panguitch High School before she was recruited by BYU (among other schools too!). She also played volleyball and basketball for Panguitch High School. At BYU she focused her athletic efforts on track and cross country and broke records in the indoor mile, 3000m, 5000m, and the outdoor 5000m. Despite these accomplishments, the NCAA National title in cross country eluded her due to Covid cancelling events, injuries, and other struggles.
Whitni talked with our Wolfpack comp team about how all the talent in the world doesn’t help if your head isn’t in the game. Being in the fittest shape of your life isn’t enough either if you don’t believe you can win.
She talked about how she struggled with BELIEVING that she could even win her events and how positive affirmations and self-talk helped her overcome the self-doubt.
She finally won the cross country national title in November 2021! The NCAA national title along with all of her amazing accomplishments landed her in the role of a professional runner with Adidas.
When it was time for Q&A, our team had lots of fun questions:
What is your best mile time?
4:29 (that garnered lots of oooohs)
What is your favorite track event?
1500m
Who has been your biggest competitor?
Myself
What are some of the affirmations you say when you’re at the start line?
Depends on the race and the distance, but mostly “stay calm and relaxed” and “I can do this”
What’s your favorite post-workout treat?
Oreos and a glass of milk (yum!)
Thank you so much Whitni for coming to chat with our Wolfpack. You’re an inspiration to our young runners!
