Athlete of the Week: Abigayle White, Horizon cross-country

Horizon High’s Abigayle White had a phenomenal junior cross-country season. In the Class 4A Region 2 meet, she ran the 5K in 18:53.8 and placed eighth overall to qualify for states. At the state race, she finished No. 24 and recorded a 5K time of 19:33.60. 

She earned a spot on the Orlando All-City Girls First Team Thursday, Dec. 11, as well as placement on the Orlando All-City All-Junior Team as a result of her accomplishments this year. 

What do you enjoy most about cross-country? 

I enjoy the team and making memories through laughs and bonding. 

When did you start cross-country, and why did you join? 

I joined cross-country my sophomore year of high school — I played volleyball my freshman year — but I joined because I wanted to improve my track times and be part of the team. 

What is your biggest accomplishment in cross-country?

My biggest accomplishment is going to Nike cross-country regionals last year and getting the time of 18:31. I was 70th place in all of the Southeast region. 

What has cross-country taught you? 

It has taught me endurance, the race and practices can be really hard and how to finish these hard workouts without giving up. 

How would you describe yourself as a teammate?

I hope I show leadership and I want to make sure that I am loyal. 

What advice would you give someone who just joined cross-country? 

Don’t give up your first week joining, it is really hard at first but it’ll get better as time goes on. 

If you were a coach, what speech would you give the team?

I would tell them to not give up if their times aren’t where they want them, they have to let go and make sure they find their joy in running again. 

What is your pre-meet ritual?

I like to read my Bible before every race and maybe eat a banana. 

If you could pick a different sport, what would it be? Why? 

I would probably pick tennis, because I love that sport and it teaches a lot of mind endurance and control. 

Who do you look up to the most? 

I look up to my parents the most because they always look out for me and are always there to comfort me.

What’s something new you would like to learn?

I would love to learn card magic tricks. I always see them online and they look so cool and impressive. 

Where would you want to live if you weren’t in Florida?

I would love to live somewhere that is mountainous, Switzerland always looked so magical, and I would love to live in a little cottage in a small village there.  

If you won the lottery what would you do with the money? 

I would probably spend a little bit on myself, maybe college or some personal goods for myself and then give the rest away to charities or children who are suffering in other countries. 

What is your favorite holiday? Why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas, because I love the cozy vibe it has and the fact that it brings everyone together. 

What future career do you want to have? 

I would love to be a researcher at NASA, exploring the stars and everywhere around the universe. 

If you became famous, what would it be for? 

I would hope as a TV show host talking about astrophysics and cool phenomenon around the universe. 

If you had to pick a spirit animal, which would you choose?

I would be a dog because they’re so cute and they are so happy and carefree.

What is your perfect day? 

Waking up in the morning to run and watch the sunrise, then go to the farmer’s market and shop, then hang out with friends, spend time at home relaxing and watching a movie. 

Would you rather only eat fruit or vegetables?

I would rather only eat fruits, because they are sweeter and go well with most food.