Morgan Dubois Runs Away With All-Conference Honors
DuBois said that her success is due to a combination of factors.
“Running has taught me how to connect the physical and mental,” said DuBois.
Cross country runners like DuBois spend a substantial amount of time on preparation and hours of training.
“Sometimes you have to sacrifice getting all ready, and even looking your best, but it’s worth it because when you want to run, you definitely do and it becomes one of your main priorities,” DuBois said.
The journey to DuBois’ current standing started in high school. She began jogging in eleventh grade as a means of relaxation and to clear her head.
However, DuBois realized that she loved the feeling after a short time and wanted to take it further.
A teacher suggested that DuBois join the cross country team and at that time she began competing.
“I never did it competitively until last year, which was my first time. Once you start jogging just for fun you get addicted to it. You say, ‘Hey I’m getting pretty good at this. Let’s see how far I could go,’” she said.
Climbing to this level of athletic achievement is not always easy for Dubois.
“The biggest challenge is the mental part of it. When you have the physical aspect down you have to put your mind to it. Sometimes you psych yourself out and you say, ‘I’m too tired’ and just let the [other runner] pass and it just sucks,” said DuBois.
“You have to keep pushing yourself,” she said.
But running is not her only passion. When DuBois is not running she works drawing. As a creative artist, she spends time on the details of her artwork.
“I really like to draw realistic portraits,” she said.
DuBois’ athletic goals include achieving a time below 20 minutes and running for the school she will transfer to.
“After college, I’d like to do something in physical training. Maybe physical education, but something [with which] I can help others,” she said.
Running and the rest of life, she said, is about challenging yourself to succeed. DuBois recognizes her own personal abilities.
“My greatest strength is keeping it positive,” she said.
DuBois also mentioned that another key to success is being able to laugh and have a good time.
“I run because it makes me feel good both physically and mentally. It takes away all the cares of the day,” DuBois said.
DuBois believes that a major key to success is habit.
“You have to keep reminding yourself to stay with it,” she said.
DuBois backed up All-Conference season with a second place finish in the regional tournament with a time of 20:57.