Fayetteville’s Gasaway Runs Her Way to State Cross Country Meet

Fayetteville sophomore cross country runner Saige Gasaway followed up her district title with a strong run at regionals this week to advance to the state meet.

She ran her two-mile course in 14:48.40 to be the 9th place individual qualifier for state out of 100 runners in Corpus.

“I’ve had Saige in the classroom and she’s been running for me since junior high in cross country and track,” said Fayetteville cross country coach Mitch Madden. “She’s a hard worker and very dedicated, a great leader. I’m looking forward to what she can do at state. She’s been improving all year long.”

We’re proud to honor Saige Gasaway as this week’s Fayette County Athlete of the Week. Here’s our interview with her:

How did you get into distance running?

“I started in seventh grade, wanting to try out all the sports, and I just stuck with cross country.”

What do you think about when you are running these long races?

“I just think about how much I have left ... just a little bit longer, or if there’s someone in front of me I know I want to catch, I just keep them on my mind.”

What’s the farthest you’ve ever run at one time?

“Four miles practicing at my house.”

Halloween’s coming up, what’s the best Halloween candy?

“Candy corn.”

What’s a memorable Halloween costume you wore?

“I was a Pink Lady from Grease one time in elementary school and it was just the best.”

Are you going to dress up this Halloween? And if so as what?

I was going to but I procrastinated and waited too long to get a costume so I am just going to be myself this year.”

How many people are in your grade (sophomore class) at Fayetteville?

“24”

What’s the best thing about going to such a small school?

“You really get to be close to everyone in high school no matter what grade they are in.”

What’s the worst thing about going to such a small school?

“You are related to half the school. You know everything about everyone.”

If you could have dinner with three celebrities who would you pick?

“Joe Burrow (Bengals quarterback), Donald Trump and Taylor Swift.”

What do you want to be when you grow up?

“Jet pilot” You made it to state last year. What are your memories of running at state?

“How many people there were. It was crazy. As you were running there were people running alongside you, – parents and supporters.”

What are your goals for the state meet?

“To get under 14 minutes. That was my goal last year, and I didn’t get it so I am aiming for it this year.”