News Detail
Damon Heats Up the National XC Stage
Adley Damon' 28 reflects on racing at the national level in a blizzard.
St. Mary’s sophomore Adley Damon is no stranger to hard work—but this fall, her dedication took her all the way to the national stage. At the USATF National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships, Adley placed 3rd overall among 15–16-year-olds, competing against some of the top high school runners in the country in extreme winter conditions.
In this Q&A, Adley shares what it was like to race in a blizzard, how she prepares mentally and physically for elite competition, and the goals she’s setting for herself in the seasons ahead. She also reflects on the role St. Mary’s has played in her development—not just as an athlete, but as a student and member of our community.
SMS: You recently placed 3rd at the USATF National Junior Olympic Cross Country Championships among 15 and 16-year-olds while competing against top high school runners from across the country. What did that experience mean to you, and what went through your mind during the race?
Adley: Placing 3rd at the USATF National Olympic Cross Country Championships was definitely a huge milestone in my running career so far. Competing with some of the best high school athletes in the nation was very eye-opening and showed me that the work I’ve put in really matters. During the race, I was trying to focus on finishing from the minute I got to the start line. Because it was blizzarding and in extremely freezing conditions, dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit, my eyes froze shut, and I couldn't see or feel anything. I could only see the people right in front of me, so I tried to hold on to them, slowly moving up. My primary focus was on holding place and not letting anyone get past me, because I knew I was doing this so I could carry the national title forever.
SMS: The race took place in Indiana in snowy conditions. Was that the first time you’ve competed in such conditions? How did you prepare mentally and physically for racing in that environment, and what did it teach you about yourself as a runner?
Adley: Yes, that was my first time racing in conditions that extreme, and my first time racing outside of Oregon. Mentally, I prepared by prepping myself to endure the inevitable suffering of pushing my body to the limit. I accepted the weather was out of my control and focused on what I could control: effort and toughness. Physically, I made sure to wear layers, although we were required to remove everything we weren't racing in 30 minutes before the race to get into the prep tent. This time was really hard for me, and I tried to huddle close to the ground in the tent with my handwarmers, wearing only one layer in the freezing conditions.
SMS: As a sophomore already competing at a national level, what goals are you setting for yourself in the upcoming track and cross country seasons at St. Mary’s?
Adley: My main goal is to continue improving consistently and staying healthy. For track, I want to compete and try to podium at the state and national level again with the 3000-meter and 1500-meter, and try the 800. For Cross Country, I am training to place high at state and race in Nike Cross Regionals and Nike Cross Nationals. I am focused on long-term development and seeing how far I can push myself while still loving the process.
SMS: Long-distance running requires discipline, resilience, and patience. How have those qualities shaped you, not just as an athlete, but as a student and member of the St. Mary’s community?
Adley: Distance running has taught me so much in my life and is a massive part of who I am as a person. It has taught me discipline, time management, and perseverance. Through my running career, I have faced setback after setback and come back stronger every time with more confidence in my ability, both athletically and academically. Balancing academics and athletics is sometimes extremely difficult, but it has made me very organized and resilient. Being part of the St. Mary’s community has shown me the value of working hard towards my goal, surrounded by others who also have high expectations for themselves and teachers who support my academic career.
SMS: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your development as a runner so far (teammates, family, mindset), and how has St. Mary’s supported your growth?
Adley: The most significant influence on my running is my drive to be a better version of myself. Every time I push myself past what I thought were limits, I see what I am capable of and keep chasing higher goals. Looking back, I am so proud of what I have accomplished and come back from, and wouldn't change anything about my bumpy road to success. I am incredibly grateful for my family, who endlessly supported everything I do, helping me register and pay for travel to the Junior Olympic Regionals and Nationals. I am also so grateful for my teammates, Esther and Anna Arthur, who are always cheering me on. They have improved so much and inspire me with their bravery and determination. I'm also so happy for my opportunity to train with Bella Fortino last year; she has encouraged me endlessly in my running growth and inspired me as the excellent collegiate runner she is.
SMS: Looking ahead, what excites you most about your future in running, both during your time at St. Mary’s and eventually at the collegiate level?
Adley: What excites me the most is seeing how much more I can grow. I’m motivated by the idea of continuing to challenge myself and race in more highly competitive high school meets, eventually competing at the D1 collegiate level. I’m excited for the journey ahead and everything I’ll learn along the way.
SMS: Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Adley: Running, especially this season, has reminded me that progress isn’t linear and setbacks lead to growth. I’m so proud of how far I’ve come and excited for what’s next. I will continue to train hard this winter for the track season.
