McLoud’s first regional champion Elizabeth Maxwell goes the extra mile
Last year, Elizabeth Maxwell became the first female runner in McLoud High School history to win a regional title.
McLoud’s program was founded during Maxwell’s sophomore year, and she took little time to get to work. She also runs cross country and plays varsity and club soccer.
“I have never ran true sprints, just long-distance, so it was a huge change for me, but I managed to pick up track so well because my coaches were so engaged and understand my running style, as they had known my abilities because of my time in cross country,” Maxwell said, “It definitely took me working on days after practice after the team had left or even coming up on weekends to run.”
To this day, McLoud’s team doesn’t have a track to practice on, save the grass track in the center of its cross country course; but that never stood between Maxwell and excellence. She placed in the 400m at regionals her sophomore year.
“I felt like I had something to prove,” Maxwell said.
Last year, Maxwell took home regional medals in the 400m and 800m and was conference champion in the quarter. This year, Maxwell will run an eclectic mix of races; the 400m, the 800m relay, the 1600m relay and the 3200m relay.
“For this track season, my goals would be to be a state-placer in the 400 and be state champions in the 4×2,” Maxwell said.
She juggles a lot. Maxwell serves as vice president of MHS’ student council, president of Link Crew leadership, senior adviser for Key Club, secretary of National Honors Society and is a member of gifted 7 talented; art club, FCA; and bible club. She also takes concurrent classes at Rose State, where she will attend next year on a full soccer and PLC scholarship.
“Time management is really my biggest talent,” Maxwell said.
Leadership continues to be an important aspect of Maxwell’s life.
“If you lead, someone will follow, and if you’re leading in a positive, caring and loving way, you never know the impact you leave on people,” Maxwell said.
Keeping faith at the center of her life has allowed Maxwell to excel in so many areas.
“Past all the sports and clubs, having my faith in God is the only way any of it is possible,” Maxwell said. “I wouldn’t have anything in this life without Him. . . I try to lead and love like [MHS teacher and coach] William Winters.”
