Monica Kinney is a junior at Grand Valley State University and recently ran 15:46 out of the slow heat at Mt. Sac. Her big Mt. Sac PR followed up on a tremendous indoor campaign, where Kinney won the mile and 5k at Nationals.


Q : So, was this past indoor championships at New Mexico sort of a breakthrough for you? (Monica won the mile, 5k and anchored the 2nd-place DMR team)

 

A : Well, college was really the first time I focused solely on running. In high school I played soccer while running track and swam while participating in cross country. Entering a program like Grand Valley’s, one that is patient with training, helped me to gradually progress into higher mileage and more intense workouts, becoming a more established runner. I feel as if my progression has been slow and steady, constantly chipping off time, which has helped to keep me motivated and determined to continue its progression. I see this past nationals as being on pace with my progression and has given me much more confidence to continue. 

 

Q : Did you not find it difficult recovering at altitude? Did you notice any differences racing/recovering?

 

A : Honestly, it scared me a little going into race. I’d heard and seen how it can affect endurance athletes. Fortunately for me, I didn’t seem to experience the same effects. 

 

Q : You've stepped it up even more this outdoor season, running a 15:46 at Mt. Sac out of the slow heat. First of all, were you upset that you weren't in the fast heat? Do you think you were capable of even faster times? 

 

A : It’s funny you mention that. My coaches, Joe Lynn and Jerry Baltes, after finding out that I’d missed the fast heat, thought about trying to get me in it. I was pleased they decided against it. I was intimidated by the athletes competing and felt more confident in the slower section. In retrospect, I wish I would have been in the faster heat, outside my comfort level. I believe I am capable of running a faster time and can’t wait for another opportunity. This was a good experience, however, in that it helped me to gain confidence and embrace competition. 

 

Q : You had a terrific battle with Neely Spence of Shippensburg indoors in the 5k. You both are juniors, you both have been running great outdoors ... what are your thoughts about the national meet in a few weeks, and the great rivalry you two are sure to have all of next year?

 

A : I’ve admired how Neely has competed on the track, as well as in cross country. Her classy, competitive spirit make her fun to race against. I’m excited to race her again, especially after her performance at Mt. Sac. She brings a higher level of competition and an opportunity for faster times. At this upcoming Nationals, I hope we are able to push each other and represent Division II well. 

 

Q : Your versatility is something that impresses me. You ran a 58.47 400 in high school ... and you've run a 2:09, a 4:26.89 1500, a 15:46 5k and a 23:31 6k in XC. What is your favorite event and what do you think your strengths are as a runner? 

 

A : My favorite event would probably be the 1500. I really enjoy the interval training it brings. I’m beginning to warm up to the distance events. My strengths come from my multi-sport background of swimming, soccer, karate and skating. They have allowed me to develop other muscles and offer an alternative form of training free from the pounding of running. 

 

Q : Early in your career, you focused more on the 800/1500. Did you always know you wanted to be more of a distance runner? Do you foresee a jump to the 10k at some point at GVSU?

 

A : Coming into college, I saw myself as being an 800 runner, but I was placed in the 1500. Then, my sophomore year, I began to see myself as a 1500 runner, but then I was placed in the 5k. This year I still focused on the 1500 but a little more so on the 5k. I’m reluctant to advance to the 10k, but at this rate I think it may inevitably be in my future and as I’ve grown to enjoy the 5k I’m sure I’ll find a place for the 10k, if it crosses my path. 

 

Q : Currently ranked #2 in the 1500 and the 5k, what are your plans/goals for Nationals?

A : I plan to run both the 1500 and the 5k. It would be great for our team to win another national title and complete the year. I’ll do all that I can to put our team in the best position possible. 

 

Q : GVSU currently has the top 3 girls in the 1500, and won XC Nationals this year as a team. Has it helped having such a terrific group of middle-distance/distance runners to train with?

 

A : Absolutely, Katherine McCarthy, Eileen Cruetz and the entire team are a big reason I’ve accomplished the things I have. The team provides constant motivation and encouragement. Together, we push one another to run faster, train harder and reap the benefits of a positive team atmosphere. Hard workouts are much more manageable when you’re having fun, and gutting it out with friends. 

 

Q : How has your DII experience at Grand Valley State University been? To what can you attribute your successes?

 

A : DII has absolutely been the right choice for me. My senior year of high school my Dad pushed me to talk to more DI schools (“You have to see what’s out there and all the opportunities you have,”) but the ones I talked to wanted me to choose an easier curriculum so I could emphasize more on running. When looking at DII schools, I could truly see the “balance” emphasizing academics and athletics, I could see myself as a student athlete and not just an athlete who happened to be taking classes. I just recently got accepted into the GVSU Nursing program, which was made possible by the support of my coaches who knew when I was stressing over exams and often adjusted practice times and restructured workouts to alleviate any added stressors. GVSU has given me the ability to excel both in the classroom and on track. I’m glad I choose DII. 

Thank you Monica and good luck with the double at Nationals!