Sporty Saturday Spotlight 2-6-10

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on twenty-year-old triathlete, Michelle Warburton. Check out Michelle’s interview below where she dishes about teammates, shares how she gets the results she wants, and much, much more.

Name: Michelle Warburton

Age: 20

Sport(s): Triathlon, Surfing, Cross Country Running

Hometown: Wantagh, New York

High School/Middle School/College: San Diego State University 

What’s your fave sport? Currently triathlon and surfing

How many years have you been playing your fave sport?

About three, but I’ve been running and doing endurance sports for about six years.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

Finishing rookie training for ocean life guarding on Long Island.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Patience and determination always pays off.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

A lot!  With endurance sports, the correlation between the work you put in and the results you get out is very strong!  So, in a nutshell, work hard, play hard!

What have you learned about teamwork?

Your teammates become your best friends and support system.  They become a family and when you’re away from home, this is crucial to doing well in a sport and living a happy, balanced life.

How do you balance school and sports?

It’s tough, but I plan ahead and schedule my time.  I’m also not as hard on myself as I was in high school, One bad grade isn’t that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things! 

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

MVP high school cross country, Gatorade Will to Win Award, LA Triathlon first age group, 5th place WSA Women’s Long Board Division. 

Who’s your fave athlete?

Right now Hannah Cornett.  She’s a pro surfer, triathlete and does a lot of volunteer work. I’d definitely like to follow in her footsteps.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

Hmmm this is a pretty tough one. I’d say paint my nails and use body lotion?  I have to find some more fun girly habits!

Thanks, Michelle! Loved your answers, especially the last one. :)  Best of luck with your amazing career.

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight 1-30-10

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on seventeen-year-old off road dirt bike racer, Emily ‘Em’ Winters. Check out Emily’s interview below where she shares what it’s like to beat the boys, her nicknames, a secret wish, and much, much more.

Name: Emily  “Em” Winters

Age: 17

Sport(s): Off-Road dirt bike racing

Hometown: Bend, Oregon

High School: Crook County High School

Number: 16B

What’s your fave sport?

My favorite sport is Off-Road dirt bike racing. I race Grand-Prix(GP) and Cross-Country(XC). GP is on a track, not as technical or difficult as XC and has a higher speed average. XC is more of trail racing, not on a track, and it is much more technical and difficult than GP’s.

How many years have you been playing your fave sport?

I have been riding by myself for 10 years. But I have been racing for nearly two years.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

My favorite racing moment was when I won my first race in the 200B class. Which is a class full of men/boys, I am the only girl. So I was very proud of myself for that accomplishment.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

I have learned to be humble and not be a boaster and not brag. I let my riding show my skill and determination. If I were to brag about how well I thought I was, then I  wasn’t able to prove it, people would think I was a liar.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

The biggest thing I have learned is that it takes A LOT of determination and dedication to stick with racing. If I were to walk away, then I would be quitting. And quitters never win.

What have you learned about teamwork?

Teamwork is the key point to racing. If everyone does their job, then the whole team gets credit for a win. Teamwork helps make everyone’s work easy.

How do you balance school and sports?

I consider myself a student athlete. School is very important. I try to pay attention in school so that I don’t have to work as hard when I’m not in school, which leaves more time for racing and training.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

I am the 2008 OMRA Women’s Cross-Country Champion.

Soon to be 2009 OMRA 200B Cross-Country Champ

and 2009 OMRA 200B Grand-Prix Champ!

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Shane Watts and Ashley Fiolek are my two favorite athletes. I have met them both and they are both extremely nice and are exceptional at racing and riding. I admire both of them.

Do you have any nicknames? If so, what are they?

Well, I have a couple. Em is one of my nicknames because it’s my name shortened. Also, I have been ‘named’ Killer and Lil Miss Holeshot (LMHS). Killer is because at a couple races I ‘killed’ the competition, and LMHS because I usually get the holeshot!

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I LOVE shopping, dancing and hanging out with my girls! Even though I seem like a tomboy, I love getting my hair and makeup done. I love shopping for dresses and trying them on.  Sometimes I wish I was a model.

Thanks, Emily! Very impressive awards and I love your nicknames. Best of luck with your amazing career.

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Get to Know: Kristine Lilly

Kristine Lilly is often referred to as the USA’s Iron Woman, and for a good reason. Not only has she played in 342 matches for the USA (the most capped player on the world) and scored 129 goals in her national team career, but she has played on both professional leagues that have existed in the US and she has done it all over the course of more than 20 years (her first international appearance was in August 3, 1987). Can you think of any other athlete who’s had a professional career of 20 years?

She has won 2 World Cups, participating in 5, and 2 Olympic gold medals, participating in 3. She was an all-star with the Boston Breakers in the WUSA (2001-2003), and she is now playing for the Boston Breakers in WPS. She was a four time NCAA champion at UNC, and helped her high school team to 3 State championships.

Kristine was the captain of the national team from 2005-2007, but took 2008 off to have her baby girl, Sydney. Later that year she came back  to the field as she was allocated to the Boston Breakers. She started all 20 matches for the Breakers, the only player on the team to do so, and led the team in minutes played with 1,800. She was voted to the All-Star team where she started and scored a goal helping the team to a 4-2 win over opponent Umea IK.

You can certainly say that Kristine is one of the world’s greatest athletes, but she’s not done yet. As she is preparing for another season with the Breakers, she took the time to answer some questions, posted below.

What was your favorite moment/experience while at UNC?

I don’t think I have one moment that was my favorite but the best part was the great friends I made there.  Plus the education I got and winning 4 national championships were also good.

Do you intend to play in the 2011 World Cup or 2012 Olympics?

I haven’t been asked back up to the national team. So really it is in the hands of the U.S. coach.

Who on the national team is the most difficult to go one-on-one with?

Back in the day Joy Fawcett was always difficult to go up against.  Now Christie Rampone, Kate Markgraf and Amy LePeilbet were all difficult.

What does it mean to you, as a player and a person, to hold the world record for international appearances representing your country?

I am just really proud to have played in so many games.  That means I worked hard to remain a starter and be healthy to participate in so many games.

Do you think anyone will ever get more caps for their country than you have for the USA?

I’m not sure about that, but records are always made to be broken.

Who is the most difficult player from another country that you’ve ever had to play against?

Hege Riise, a player from Norway. She was very good.

If you could participate on any game show, which one would it be and why?

I always wanted to be on Family Feud.

Growing up, what was your favorite TV show to watch?

Happy Days.

If you didn’t play soccer for a living, what would you be doing instead?

I’m not sure. I love to take pictures, maybe a photographer.

I’ve read on your website that you took some cooking classes with your husband. What is your best dish?

My best dish now, is probably the mac & cheese I learned how to cook, by Ellie Deaner.

Do you have a hidden talent?

I can touch my tongue to my nose.

What is the craziest, most thrilling thing you’ve ever done?

I almost hiked to the top of Kilimanjaro.  Missed the summit by about 1500 feet.  I got altitude sickness.

Has your little one shown any interest for soccer?

She can kick a ball.

What do you like to do when you’re not training?

Play with my daughter and take a long walk with my dog.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Chocolate chip ice cream

What was your first car?

Passat

You’re first appearance for the USA was in 1987, more than 20 years ago, and you’ve been playing ever since you were a little kid- pretty much your entire life. How have you been able to play at the highest level for so long?

I just worked hard.  I made sure I was always fit.  I learned how to take care of myself but I also had fun with the people I played with, which made me want to work for them and vice versa.

This one is just for laughs. Do you think Sidney and the other WNT babies (the girls) will be the future of the national team?

It would be interesting to see one day what they all decide to do with their lives.

What do you want your legacy to be?

I think I would want people to know I went out there every day and worked hard and played for my teammates and to be the best!

What are your thoughts on the next WPS season?

Hopefully we can win in Boston!

(Ed. Note: Be sure to follow Kristine on her website www.KristineLilly13.com)

Sporty Saturday Spotlight 1-16-10

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on fourteen-year-old BMX racer and road cycling mountain biker, Mary Mae Duarte. Check out Mary’s interview below where she shares her fave BMX moment, how she balances school and sports, and much, much more.

Name: Mary Mae Duarte

Age: 14

Sport(s): bmx racing and freestyle road cycling mountain biking

Hometown: Riverside, California

High School: Citrus Valley High School

What’s your fave sport? bmx racing

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

My favorite moment while racing bmx was when I finally jumped for my first time.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Never give up! And once that gate goes down keep it pedaling!

What have you learned about teamwork?

When you’re all together we all equal as one person. Nothing will be able to happen if one person doesn’t get along with someone else.

How do you balance school and sports?

My dad makes me finish all my homework before I can go anywhere or do anything!

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

My favorite male would have to be Brian Deegan and my favorite female is Danica Patrick! (:

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature

question)

HA OMG! The girliest “things” I LOVE to do are get my nails done, go shopping, make sure my makeup is perfect! haha (:

Thanks, Mary! I agree. Danica Patrick is amazing. Best of luck with your sports career.

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight 9-19-09

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on twenty-one-year-old motocross rider, Ashley Jackson. Check out Ashley’s interview below where she shares her passion for motorcross and much, much more. Plus, check out Ashley’s amazing action shots.

Name: Ashley Jackson

Age: 21

Sport(s): Motocross

Hometown: Orlando

High School/Middle School/College: Connecticut School of Broadcasting

Number: 681

What’s your fave sport? Motocross

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 14 years

What is your fave sporty moment or memory?

When I was at Nationals, I got 9th overall out of 42 other girls.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

It takes a lot of discipline and hard work, and your sport has to be something you are willing to do, and just something you live for.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Train as hard as you can and make certain days where it is all about motocross, and just be the best you can be at all times you are on the bike.

How do you balance school and sports?

School is number 1, to balance both I just think I can’t ride or anything unless I do well at school.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

Plaques and trophies are pretty much what they hand out. I also get contingency money.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

James Stewart and Travis Pastrana

Ashley Fiolek and Jessica Patterson

What’s the girliest thing you  like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I like to shop, but that’s pretty much it.

Thanks, Ashley!! Your first name is one of my faves… Best of luck with your motorcross career and Happy Holidays. :)

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Podcast: Pretty Tough Peak Performance Episode 08

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 5:12 — 4.8MB)

Pretty Tough is proud to present the eighth in our series of weekly podcasts focusing on Peak Performance.

The PT Peak Performance series features leading experts from the fields of sports nutrition, diet, sports psychology and core and fitness training, as well as athletes, trainers and coaches. Each program is 6 – 8 minutes in length and provides cutting edge information and actionable advice to help athletes of all ages perform at their peak with a special focus on the female athlete.

Episode 008: Rebecca Scritchfield discusses the ins and outs of sports drinks.  Listen as Rebecca provides essential details about nutrition, hydration and maintaining optimum health.

About Rebecca Scritchfield: Rebecca Scritchfield is a Washington, D.C. based registered dietitian in private practice. Members of Congress, corporate executives, and professional and recreational athletes seek Rebecca’s  expertise to help them reach their performance goals. She received a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and was recognized by American Dietetic Association in 2009 as “Young Dietitian of the Year”.

Sporty Saturday Spotlight

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on 2006 Queen of the Track, Cyndee Schwartz.  Check out Cyndee’s sensational interview below where she shares how she stays balanced, her thoughts on winning, and much, much more.

Name: Cyndee Schwartz

Sport(s): Drag Racing

Age: 50 (yikes – how did THAT happen!)

Hometown: Colfax, CA

College:

Strayer University alumni (BS Computer Info Systems – 2006 )

Currently attending Sierra College – Administration of Justice

Number: G759/7759 SST

What’s your fave sport? Drag Racing

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 6 Years

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

It seems like every year I get more memories to add into my fave list… so this is a tough question. One of my favorites was a race two years ago where my friends, Katherine, Nancy, and I decided to compete in a small trophy class race.  There were about 30 cars in the class, and we three girls did our best to not have to race each other.  One by one we took out the guys we raced, and in the quarter finals, we were still in. We each again took out the guys, and then met each other in the semi final round. Katherine and I ended up in the final round. She cut a better light, so I ended up taking runner-up that day. We shared so many laughs that it was really impossible to get stressed over the race – which is probably why we did so well. That was the most fun I have ever had during a race day.

What was the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Winning is a combination of attitude, skill, and luck. All you can control is the attitude you have, and your prep for the race. If Bad Luck gets in the way of a win, don’t let it get you down. Just continue to do your best no matter what.

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Show up, prepared to work, and with a good attitude, no matter what else is going on in your life – and you will succeed.

What have you learned about teamwork?

The hardest thing is that it ISN’T all about you – it is about the team – and many  times the spotlight will be on other team members. Love it and celebrate it when your teammates do well and you don’t. Be there for your teammates always, for the good and the bad. They are your family.

How do you balance school and sports?

I have a five way balance thing going – God, family, work, school, and drag racing. That is the order of priority that I have to keep them in. I tell you it can be tough! Drag racing is part of my life and who I am, but without the other parts – drag racing can’t exist.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

My absolute favorite accolade was King (ahem… Queen) of the Track in 2006 during an all-truck race.  I was unbeatable that day!

Final Round Wins: 5

Final Rounds: 9

Semi-Finalist: 1

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

For male – John Force. He’s an NHRA pro driver that’s had some pretty tough spots over the past few years. He cares about everyone on his team (even the one’s that AREN’T related), he has a winning attitude, and he is just an inspiration to watch.

For female – Peggy Llewellyn. Another NHRA pro in the Pro Stock Motorcycles class. She is a treasure. She has a great personality on and off track, and tough competitive spirit. I have never seen her lose her cool – no matter what the circumstances. She is a great role model.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I get together with my daughter-in-law, and some friends, and we either scrapbook, or make some crafty creations with stamps. To me that is WAY girlie… especially after being in the garage tearing an engine down the day before.

Thanks, Cyndee! Great advice on winning and the importance of balance and best of luck with your Drag Racing career.

Do you or someone you know want to be spotlighted? Send an email to Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Sporty Saturday Spotlight 11-07-09

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on twenty-two-year old Fabienne Lanz. Fabienne hails from South Africa and is a history making Motorsport Racer. Check out Fabienne’s interview below where she shares a must read tip for athletes, how she handles competing in a male-dominated sport, her strong faith, and much much more. And don’t miss some great Fabienne pics.

Name: Fabienne Lanz

Age: 22

Sport(s): Motorsport – Karting

Hometown: Kyalami, South Africa

Number: 96

Position for 2009: 3^rd in the South African National Vortex Super Rok category.

What was your fave sporty moment or memory?

I am blessed and grateful to say that I have a few very fave moments in Motorsport. I think the most fave moment would be the one in 2007 at the Vortex Super Rok Grand Final in Lonato, Italy, because I as an athlete performed my best and the team was top notch, from the engine engineer to the chassis engineer and the support was phenomenal. I had to learn the track really fast, as I never even laid eyes on that track before. I adapted to the grip level quite quickly as well, which I am very grateful for as many people struggled with it. I had a lot of confidence, I was solid as a rock, and no one could intimidate me. Everything came together in the end, we finished 5^th in the world and we made history as I became the first female to finish on the podium. I was over the moon! I thank god for everything as his hand was over me.

List some of your best achievements to date:

2003 – Raced in 3 of the Florida, USA Rotax Max Junior Championship, won 2 rounds and finished 2nd in the third. Finished 4th in the South African Rotax Max Junior Championship.

2004 – Finished Runner Up (2nd) in the South African Rotax Max Challenge Championship, won the Rotax Max Challenge NRKC Championship in a South African designed and built Kart (Apex) & qualified to participate at the Rotax Max RM1 International Final at Lanzarote, Spain in 2005.

2005 – Made history and became the first female to make it through to the Final day out of 89 competitors of which only the top 34 qualify to the final round.

2007 – Finished 4th in the Final at Round 1 of the Rotax Euro DD2 Challenge in Salbris, France. Finished 8th in the South African Vortex Super Rok Championship, qualified for the Vortex Super Rok International Final in Lonato, Italy. Made history again as I became the first female to finish on the podium as I finished 5th out of 50 top class karters in the world. I got my National Colours for our outstanding performance.

2008 – Finished Runner Up (2) in the South African Vortex Super Rok Championship, won the Vortex Super Rok NRKC Championship and qualified to participate at the Vortex Super Rok International Final in Lonato, Italy. Finished 13th overall out of 66 competitors.

In a male dominated sport, how do you handle it and how do they handle it getting beaten by a girl?

I used to get pushed around when I first started racing until I was told to overtake left, right over or even underneath. The point was to get passed and not to take any nonsense from the anyone. Today other competitors know, if they push me, I push them back. They must not mess with me. Some boys/men can’t take it to get beaten by a girl, but some look at me as another competitor, which is cool.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from racing?

There are so many, which makes this sport a real life changing experience! I think the biggest one would be dedication. The preparation that goes into the engine and chassis before the race is so important as this is the starting ground to the weekend’s race. A lot of long hours are spent on getting this right. I try to train at least 4 days a week, mostly on core muscles. Studying of the Kart’s handling and engine performance never stops as every corner needs to be analyzed to get the best combination for a specific track.

What have you learned about teamwork?

Team work is what completes the racing driver I think. I think the most important people behind the driver are the Kart and Engine Engineer. The driver needs to work with the Kart and engine engineer in order to get the kart on pace. The people who help put the tent up and clean the kart and change tyres are also important as they make mine and my engineer’s work load a bit less and thus we can concentrate on out jobs. Team work is essential with the team mate as we follow each other to study who is quicker at what position on the track and we discuss the different set up we each have. The media person is one of the most important to work with as she/h

e markets me.

What drives you to compete?

I love the speed, the complexity of the set up, engine tuning and race strategy. I love competition and the more there is the more that is game on for me. Sometimes the butterflies get almost unbearable before some of the races as I get so exited to give it my all and try and win, but I would not change it for anything. It is living life to the full for me. To be able to stand on the podium at the end is the cherry on the cake.

What do you aspire to become?

My dream is to race a Formula 1 car. I love the speed; the technical complexity of setting up the car to the race strategy to doing what I do best and that is driving the car to its maximum potential and winning! It is the pinnacle of racing for me.

What tip would you like to give people out there?

Once you have found something that turns your tummy upside down, gives you the thrill of your life and you can’t stop thinking about it, hold on to it. Do not give up on your dream. There is a will, there is a way! God will have his hand over you. Trust and have faith in him. And remember, practice makes perfect. :)

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

My favourite male athletes are Michael Schumacher and Lance Armstrong. My favourite female athletes are Danica Patrick, Venus and Serena Williams.

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

I think the girliest thing I like to do would be getting all dressed up in a evening dress for an award dinner, looking glamorous.

Thanks, Fabienne for the fabulous and in-depth interview. I absolutely love your tip! So true. :)

If you or someone you know would like to be interviewed for a Sporty Saturday Spotlight, email Keri Mikulski at kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Happy Saturday!

Podcast: Pretty Tough Peak Performance Episode 005

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 9:27 — 8.7MB)

Pretty Tough is proud to present the fifth in our series of weekly podcasts focusing on Peak Performance.

The PT Peak Performance series features leading experts from the fields of sports nutrition, diet, sports psychology and core and fitness training, as well as athletes, trainers and coaches. Each program is 6 – 8 minutes in length and provides cutting edge information and actionable advice to help athletes of all ages perform at their peak with a special focus on the female athlete.

Episode 005: Rebecca Scritchfield discusses the importance of fueling during exercise for athletes. Listen as Rebecca provides essential details about nutrition, hydration and maintaining optimum health.

About Rebecca Scritchfield: Rebecca Scritchfield is a Washington, D.C. based registered dietitian in private practice. Members of Congress, corporate executives, and professional and recreational athletes seek Rebecca’s expertise to help them reach their performance goals. She received a master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and was recognized by American Dietetic Association in 2009 as “Young Dietitian of the Year”.

http://www.rebeccascritchfield.com

Sporty Saturday Spotlight 10-31-09

Happy Halloween!! Hope everyone is eating and enjoying a ton of yummy candy.

This Saturday the sporty spotlight shines bright on eighteen-year-old college swimmer, Elizabeth Longo. Today, Elizabeth dishes on determination, lessons, and how she balances school and swimming. Check out her interview and gorgeous pic below.

Name: Elizabeth Longo

Age: 18

Sport(s): Swimming

Hometown: Bartlett, Tennessee

High School/Middle School/College: University of Memphis

What’s your fave sport? Swimming

How many years have you been playing your fave sport? 3 competitive

What is your fave sporty moment or memory?

Qualifying for the county swim meet.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned from playing your sport?

Determination

What lessons have you learned about work ethic from your sport?

Rule 1: If you are not bleeding, nothing is broken, and you’re not dying, get back in the pool. (The 12 Golden Rules of Swimming) The same applies to school and work.

What have you learned about teamwork?

A relay team is only as fast as it’s slowest swimmer

How do you balance school and sports?

School comes first and training fits in around classes. I also get up and going while most people are still sleeping. I tend to get more done before noon than some people do all day.

List some awards or accolades you’ve received.

18^th in Shelby County High Schools for the 100-yard backstroke for the 2008-2009 season

What is your biggest goal?

I want to break the world record for a woman to swim the English Channel (the current record is 8 hours and 45 minutes) before I turn 21. Right now, I plan to make my attempt when I’m 20.

Who’s your fave athlete, both male and female?

Male- Apolo Anton Ohno

Female- Natalie Couglin

What’s the girliest thing you like to do? (Pretty Tough signature question)

Shopping for cute clothes (Is there anything better?) and gossiping about guys with my friends.

Thanks, Elizabeth! Good luck with the world record. Sounds exciting! J

Do you or do you know someone who wants to be spotlighted? Send an email to kerimikulski(at)gmail(dot)com.

Time to trick or treat with my little Nemo…  :)

Enjoy!

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