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DtB spoke with Zemba recently to get to know Minnesota's newest star.
DtB: Tell us a bit about how you got involved in running and where your career has taken you so far. I understand you were a swimmer for many years?
Zemba: I did start out swimming at the age of six and swam for the YMCA team all the way through my junior year of high school. I really didn't get "serious" about running until my sophomore year of high school after I had some success in track my freshman year. I was lucky enough to receive a running scholarship to Grand Valley State University and really start training. I ended up winning a national championship my freshman year in track, then had some injuries and set backs, and continued to progress my training to end up with eight national titles.
DtB: You're a graduate of Grand Valley State in Michigan, a Division II school. What worked well for you there, do you think, that led to all of your success?
Zemba: In high school, I really didn't know what training was so college was a big step up for me and I don't think I could have picked a better place to go. It allowed me to slowly progress my training and increase my miles throughout the six years I was there. We focused a lot on strength, like hills, tempos, and good long run, as well as making sure we were recovered after hard workouts. Jerry Baltes is a great coach who always produces good results. He has taught me a lot about running and stuck with me through the bad years. I don't think I would be where I am at if I hadn't gone to Grand Valley and I thank God everyday that I went there.
DtB: Your compeitive career seemed to really take off after the birth of your son Zac. How do you account for that?
Zemba: Before I had Zac I was going through some struggles with injuries and other personal things and having Zac was God's blessing in disguise. I was able to focus more on what was most important in my life and not take anything for granted. I felt like Grand Valley and Jerry gave me a second chance and I wanted to make the most out of it. I never thought it would take me this far, but very happy it did and I love being a mom.
DtB: What events do you intend to focus on in 2008? How about longer term?
Zemba: I will probably focus on the 5k, but I want to try to get a qualifier in the 10k this spring as well. I have never done a 10k on the track before so it will be interesting to see what I can do and we all think the 10k will be my main focus in the years to come as well as longer road races. The marathon is still just a thought.
DtB: Is there anything else you'd like folks in your new home to know about you as a runner or a person?
Zemba: My family and I are excited to be here, and are looking forward to spring :) We have loved being here so far and would like to thank Pat, the team, and the Minnesotans for welcoming us so well. I look forward to many years of good training in Minnesota!
Photo by Victor Sailer, courtesy of Team USA Minnesota.
1 comment:
Mandi, I had an opportunity to be at GV the same time as you and I was inspired by you then. I met you and your family at the Hyde Park Blast and I learned what a wonderful and down to earth person you are. You are an inspiration to me as a runner and you shed a positive light on so many people. Keep up the hard work, I will keep you in my prayers! :-)
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