Full Name: Annabella Tedder
High school: Acorn High
When did you first start running, and do you recall any of your childhood races?
I have been doing fun runs since I was nine years old, and actual cross country and track runs since I was in seventh grade. I do remember my first color run, because me and my Pepaw both ran it, and many of the runs following.
Was there a certain moment when you realized you would be able to compete at a high level?
When I ran during practice with the basketball team and finished first in the mile and a half most of the time.
What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?
I had tendonitis this last year right after cross country season that put me out for eight weeks, and even now I am recovering still from an injury I gained on a fun run during track season. However, the healing process is almost complete, and I will be able to compete this year thanks to my coach.
If you had to pick: Track and Field or Cross Country, and why?
This is exceptionally difficult, and I don't think I could sacrifice one for the other if I had to. But to answer the question, I would choose cross country for the sole reason that it doesn't take as long.
How is the college recruiting process going, and what schools are you looking at?
Some recruiters have talked with my coach, and I am not looking at any one college. Any college in Arkansas is a consideration.
Is there another track event you wish you were good at?
What is appealing about it?
The 800-meter run, because it is exciting to watch and run alike and the competition is always mere feet in front of or behind you.
What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?
Reading, writing, hiking, kayaking, dancing, and a variety of other things.
Who is your role model, and why?
My coach is definitely one of my main role models, because of his dedication to what he loves, his constant pursuit of knowledge, and his overall goodness of character.
Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!
Travel across the Unitied States and other countries, gain a satisfying and successful career, and I guess I'll find more along the way.
What is the best advice you have received?
"Run faster!" (My mother and eight-year-old sister)
What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?
My pre-race snack would be fruit smiles and peanut butter crackers.
What is your go to pre-race music?
I don't usually listen to music before a race, and if I do it's usually Taylor Swift played on one of the boys speakers while riding the bus
If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?
Swimming, because those people are super fit and they can run pretty fast as well, so it's a win-win.