Ella Taylor

When did you start running?

Talk about your transition to the high school team and your first impressions.

After caving to my dad and my brother’s gentle prodding to start running, I ran with the team for the first time at Sugar Hollow the summer before eighth grade. I was instantly struck by how kind and accepting everyone was on the team, and I felt so cool as they ran and talked with me for the first two miles before I turned. After the first practice, I knew running-- both the sport and the team-- would be a constant part of my high school experience. Even though my eighth-grade self was hesitant to admit it, I am so thankful that my family encouraged me to start running; the genuine warmth of everyone on the team and the thoughtful drills and advice from the coaches was starkly different from my experience with gymnastics in middle school. A few early memories include running up with the last hill at Decca with Coach Chuck and my fellow freshmen, the support of the team during grassy loop intervals around Old Trail, and cramming into Coach Chuck’s car to beat the buses to Couch.

What was your most regrettable or embarrassing XC moment or race?

Probably the Districts XC race this past year. I stopped during the race, which is normally something I wouldn’t even consider thinking about. I prided myself for being “that kid” in gym class who no-matter-what-would-not-walk, so stopping mid-race both disgusted me and broke my heart as I had let the team down. However, every failure has a silver lining, and I learned how much running for the team meant deep down to me, and I began to draw on this new source of strength during workouts and races afterward, which has made me both a more perseverant runner and person. Also, add electrolytes to your water so you don’t overhydrate in the hours before your race.

What is your proudest XC accomplishment (this does not have to be a performance)?

Either Milestat or the RVA Night Relays of this year. Leading into Milestat, I had reached a time plateau and various racing/eating strategies did not seem to be working, so pushing through and running a full 5k where I felt tired but strong was spectacular. Finishing strong made me feel like my hard work was paying off, and every person that I passed throughout the second half of the race was points for the team. I also love relay races as you can cheer for your teammates and every step you take will put your team in a better position. The night setting of the RVA Relays makes you feel like lightning on the course, and by the time I reached the mile I may or may not have gone out slightly too fast. The last half mile I gave everything I had for the team, and it was surreal as my focus shifted from the burn to get the baton to Kate! Quick, quick, quick! If she even thinks about passing me ooh buddy… You are strong, you are relaxed, you are tough! In addition, I also loved sprinting around the infield cheering for the rest of the team as they ran, and I was so proud of everyone and myself after the race:)

What are you looking forward to this season?

I can’t wait to get to know all of you and continue to build a team bond throughout this unique season! Cross Country 2020 is a new adventure, and I’m excited to try a different selection of races while maintaining some of the team’s fun activities, such as scavenger hunts, tye-dye, buddy bags, and breakfasts. Furthermore, I look forward to watching and experiencing our improvement as a team come February, as everyone has been working incredibly hard throughout the extended season.

What do you love about the team?

So much-- everyone on the team cares for one another, and the atmosphere is just so warm and uplifting. I love winding through the Henley trails in conversation on easy days, and the positivity that everyone brings during grueling workouts or races is one of a kind. The humor on the team is top tier; I love the balance of hard work and fun (and memes). The love that emanates from all of the amazing people on the team is contagious, and I wouldn’t trade our little WAHS XC family for the world! Powering through a workout with teammates connects you, and I love knowing that we can do hard things together.

What has become one of your (non-running) pandemic obsessions (maybe obsession is too strong a word- what are you into that's not running)?

The extra time has allowed me to explore Charlottesville’s hiking trails with my dogs. Recently, they have enjoyed Sugar Ridge Road, Green Springs, Ridge Road, and any hiking trail with a water crossing. In addition, running alone has introduced me to the world of podcasts and music while I exercise. For easy days, I love listening to story podcasts such as The Moth, whereas for workouts I prefer music.

If you were to give advice to girls just joining the team or some of the younger runners, what would that be?

Running is a journey-- be patient with yourself and don’t give up! I highly recommend keeping a running journal to track your successes and potential places of improvement (you will also start to see patterns that will help you get to know how your body thrives). No matter how you feel during a workout, you can gain confidence by knowing that you improved at least one thing every workout, whether it is finishing strong, eating the right pre-run foods, holding your form, or reminding yourself of positive thoughts when you start to feel fatigued. Every runner has ups and downs, so don’t beat yourself up if you have one mediocre workout-- use the energy to drive you and focus on improving at least one aspect of your next workout. As previously mentioned, I agree that running with the team has been one of the most rewarding activities of my life; running with such a wonderful group of dedicated peers has pushed me beyond what I could have achieved alone, and it is truly magical to run for something greater than yourself. Running can be hard, but you will discover that you are much stronger than you think and that the coaches and the whole team are behind you!:) Throughout high school, you will have a built-in friend group who will always have your back. Running has helped me become the best version of myself, as the teamwork, perseverance, positivity, and resilience that I have gained from the sport will carry through to the rest of my life--so stay the course as the values you will discover within yourself and the people you will meet will benefit you long after high school! I’m so glad that you’re here, and welcome to the team!