Oklahoma State University Athletics
Cowboy Jamboree Q&A: Natalja Piliusina
September 28, 2011 | Cowgirl Cross Country & Track
Sept. 28, 2011
Natalia Piliusina
What are the advantages to having a meet at your home course?
"I think we have a huge advantage because the course is really hard and the last few K's for the girl's race is really hilly, and if you know how to run it, if you don't start too fast, you have a huge advantage. Last year, our group was so far behind the first group and we closed with them, basically, in the last K."
What are your thoughts on getting a win for the seniors in their final home meet?
"I'm just a sophomore so I can't really talk for them, but I'm sure for some of the people it's really important because it's the last home meet for them. I really want to win this as a team, not just for myself, but for the whole team."
What is your favorite moment from the Jamboree?
"Last year was my first race and it was fun just to stay with the group from the beginning and run with them. We started conservatively, and once we hit the hills, we were just catching one girl after another, and I think that was the best part of the race."
Is the Jamboree a good measuring stick to see where you all are as a team?
"It definitely is. We had a race before (Hurricane Festival), but it was just a two-mile race and so many people didn't even race. So, this is like our first big meet where most of the people are racing. It will be good to know where we are as a team because we have pretty good people right now."
What is the atmosphere like at the Jamboree?
"It's really fun to race when everyone is cheering for you. There were so many people along the fence just watching the race and you're wearing that bright orange, people see you, and people you don't even know start cheering for us. It definitely gives you that energy when you feel tired."
