Tori Willis of Bentonville XC Senior Sendoff


What was your most memorable meet and why?

My most memorable race of my senior year was state. State was so significant to me because I had been leading the whole race up until the two mile mark. Once we had got past the two mile mark I ended up falling because the mud was so slippery. I knew in order for my team to win state I had to get up and finish where I was. I got up and finished with all that I had left.

Where did you face your biggest competition?

I faced my biggest competition at the Memphis twlight meet. There were a lot of very talented girls racing from all over and from schools we had never competed against before.

Out of all of your high school accomplishments which stands out the most and why?

Winning state my sophomore year because it was my first year at Bentonville and the race was so fun and tactical. It also led up to me getting cross country runner of the year which I am very grateful for because it gave me a lot of recognition.

If you could do it all over again what would you change about your running career in high school?

I would of liked to have gotten my times much faster. I wish I could have gotten below 18:30. I also wish that I would have stayed more consistent with my cross country races.

What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome?

The most difficult obstacle I faced this year was battling with myself mentally. When I raced at MSSU I ended up not being able to finish the race. I had nearly passed out right up to mile three. Ever since then I felt like I had been worrying about it happening again and stressing myself out and also about injuries I had in the past.

What will you miss the most?

I will miss getting up every morning and going to practice and getting a great start to my mornings do what I enjoy with the best and funniest group of girls. Coach Ramaker always was sure to always give all of the girls so many laughs.

Do you have any advice for younger athletes?

Never give up no matter what gets thrown at you. Even if so many things don't make sense at the moment and you don't understand why something is happening. Stay positive and know that it's all in God's plan and he's planning something so great for you.

What are your post-high school or college plans?

I plan on running at the University of Arkansas for the Lady Razorbacks and study to become a physicians assistant.

Who would you like to say thank you to?

God, my family, all of my coaches throughout my years of running, my teammates, my friends, and every single person that kept me positive when I was struggling most throughout the years.