I started shooting at 12 years old in our front yard with my family. Dad gave me a bow for Christmas and this opened the door to a fun family activity that turned into a career in pursuit of the Olympics. I became involved in the Junior Olympic Archery Development program and under the direction of my first coach, John Wilson, I received proper training in basic archery technique. Through my teens I became more involved in competition and my love for archery grew.
At 17 years old, I decided to wait on college, train seriously, and find a professional coach. After training with Alexander Kirillov for three years, I won my spot on the 2004 USA Archery Olympic Team.
Since 2004, I have continued as a full-time archery athlete and just recently made my second Olympic Team. I am extremely excited to compete this coming August in Beijing.
1. What do you enjoy most about blogging as an athlete?
I enjoy blogging because I can express my thoughts about my training, competitive preparation, and life, both in and out of my sport. I like the fact that, similiar to a journal, I can go back and look at what I was thinking or going through at a certain time. I also really like having an outlet to communicate what is going on at this exciting time in my life to my friends and family. The support and prayers I receive from both those whom I know and love as well as those in my country and community are of the greatest importance to me. Blogging is a way for me to keep all those who are cheering me on, updated and informed, in spite of my busyness.
2. What’s the best moment of your sports career? What do you enjoy most about blogging as an athlete?
My favorite moment in my sporting career so far has to be when I finally completed the 2008 U.S. Olympic Trials process and won my place, for a second time, on the Olympic Archery Team. Because this nine month Trials process was so very grueling and demanding, it produced in me a higher standard of performance and, upon completion, left me with a sensation of accomplishment like I have never experienced before! This experience was only heightened by having my entire family present to share in my joy. I left the field that day feeling like I conquered the world!
3. What are you most looking forward to in Beijing?
I am looking forward to the thrill and privilege of competing in the Olympic Games in Beijing. It is such an honor to reperesent my country and I look forward to the opportunity. I also am excited about meeting other athletes and experiencing the Olympic Village and I can’t wait for the Opening Ceremonies!
4 Anything else we need to know about you?
My family is my most valuable support system and my relationship with Jesus Christ is what grounds me and gives me purpose. There is nothing more important to me than my Lord and Saviour. He is my Strength now and as I go through the Games. I am privileged to serve and represent Him in all I do. I am so happy my family will actually be in Beijing to watch me as I compete. After I am finished competing, we hope to tour the city together.
Sports History:
- Seven consecutive years as a National Archery Team Member
- Two-time Individual Pan-American Gold Medalist
- Top female qualifier for the 2004 U.S. Olympic Archery Team
- 9th Place Olympic Games 2004 Athens, Greece
- Consistent top ten finishes at 2003, 2005, and 2007 World Championships
- Three-time USA Archery Female Athlete of the Year
- 2007 World Championship Finalist
- 2004 and 2005 National Champion
- Five-time National Indoor Champion
- 2003 and 2006 U.S. Open Champion
- Top female qualifier for 2008 U.S. Olympic Archery Team
