Molly Hawkins Doesn't Need Sneakers to Win

Name:  Molly Hawkins

Grade: 7

Team: Hopkinton Cross Country Team, Soccer (midfield), Swimming (freestyle, butterfly, 100 IM)

Best Times:  Cross-country- 1 mile- (6:09)/Michael Carter Lisnow Respite Center Run- 5K- (20:36)

Hopkinton Patch:  When did you become interested in running?

Molly Hawkins:  I became interested in running in second grade. There was a program launched at Elmwood called the, "Marathon Fitness Challenge." I started running every few days with my mom and dad and really enjoyed it. As I progressed, I found it fun and rewarding. I also participated in Hopkinton's "Mini-Marathon" in the fourth grade, and ended up placing first in my age group.

Patch:  Do you have a favorite sport?

Hawkins:  Running!

Patch:  How do you manage three sports and academics?

Hawkins:  Sometimes it is hard because in middle school, you get a lot of homework. I try to get my homework done during any free time I have. Running is a great way to meet people, and is something that everyone can do. You can set your own times and try to achieve your personal best. Even though there are late night games, practices, and swim meets, it is worth it because I am doing something that makes me feel really great.

Patch:  Are there any runners who inspire you?

Hawkins: Yes, I have been inspired by my coach, Laura McKenzie. She has been a huge influence starting from when I was young. She has helped develop many programs such as the Marathon Fitness Challenge, Mini-Marathon, and running clubs that help people to become more involved in communtiy causes and health. Another role model for me is Jesse Owens. I like him because he overcame prejudice by proving that he could do anything on the field regardless of his skin color.

Patch:  Do you have a most memorable moment from the past year?

Hawkins:  Yes, it was the last home meet of the season against Natick and it had rained the night before. The track was extremely muddy, and despite trying to avoid the puddles, my foot got stuck in the mud and my foot lifted off of my shoe. I kept running with one shoe on and one shoe off, but I thought it would be better to run with both shoes off, so I reached down and took my other shoe off. I ran in my socks and was able to catch up to the pack. There were jaggedy rocks on the course, so I hopped and danced my way around them. It was pretty comical. Note: Molly did win the race and was able to find her muddy shoes.

Patch: What type of training do you do in the off-season?

Hawkins: I am a member of the running club and train during the summer with Laura McKenzie.