Athlete Spotlight: Olivia Vanderwey

By Jayden Hewitt
Staff Writer

The Lookout Staff Writer Jayden Hewitt was able to catch up with cross country runner Olivia Vanderwey. The freshman is from Mason and was homeschooled. She graduated in 2022.

When did you begin running cross country?
“I joined a homeschool cross country team in eighth grade in 2017.”

 Are there any moments while running at LCC, or in high school, that stick out to you?
“A moment from high school that really sticks out to me was when I broke 20 minutes for my 5K.”

What plans do you have after LCC?
“(I am) not completely sure of my plans yet, but I’m applying to Boyce College and hoping to take online classes from there.”

What is one thing you would be doing if you weren’t a runner?
“I honestly can’t imagine what I’d be doing!”

What are some goals you or your team may have for this season?
“We want as many girls in the 18s (minutes for a 5K race) as possible. Hopefully I’ll get there next race.”

Do you have some pre-run routines?
“Other than warm-up drills, I pray before every race because it’s not my strength that gets me through hard things, it’s the strength of God.”

Do you have any music that pumps you up before you run, or during?
“Taylor Swift, of course.”