Among the ranks of a strong mid-distance crew that includes freshman Abby
Claire Crowther won the 500-meter run at the Armory this past Saturday. Campus Times Archives.
Zabrodsky and senior Jackie Cinella, sophomore Claire Crowther has emerged as a presence for
the ‘Jackets.
A talent since freshman year, when she qualified for both the NYSTC Championships and ECAC Championships indoors, Crowther has returned to form this season, most recently at the NYU Team Challenge at the Armory track. Crowther nabbed first in the 500-meter run from a field of twelve competitors, finishing in 1:18.78. She returned just hours later to run the third leg of the women’s 4×400-meter relay (a team that also included Zabrodsky, Cinella and senior Casey Green), which also finished first.
Why did you decide to attend UR?
I thought UR had a really nice campus and [was] perfect [in] size. I also really liked the Rochester Curriculum, because I didn’t know what I wanted to major in and wanted to have freedom to explore different subjects. I also loved the fact that UR has Eastman [School of Music]. So many kids on campus are involved with the school of music.
How did you get your start running track?
Sophomore year of high school, my friend convinced me to run outdoors with her. I was a little hesitant at first but fell in love with the sport after the first few weeks.
What goes through your head while you’re racing?
I just try to stay relaxed in the beginning of a race and focus on keeping good form [and] pace towards the end when I get tired. I try not to overthink, because then I just get nervous.
You’ve become an important competitor for UR this season in the mid-distances. What can you attribute your success to?
I would definitely say getting more sleep and having really solid training has helped this year.
Most importantly, though, I think I have become more confident in competing and am able to race with a better mindset and attitude.
How did you feel during your 500 this past Saturday?
I had great competition this past weekend. It was a real challenge to keep up with some of the other girls in the race, but I felt strong and focused on getting the points for our team.
With States and ECACs still to come, what are you hoping to accomplish before the indoor season ends?
I’m hoping the team wins the state meet this weekend. Personally, I just want to compete well and get as many points as possible between the two meets.
Bernstein is a member of the class of 2014.
