The Olympian's prep athletes of the week for Sept. 20

• Published September 20, 2007

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JOSCELYN MINTON

Northwest Christian cross country

Age: 17

Year: Senior

Hometown: Shelton

Family: Parents, Dan and Connie; younger sister, Kelsey

Other sports at Northwest Christian: Track and field

About last week: Running against some of the state's premier runners from larger schools, Minton won the

3.1-mile Fort Steilacoom Invitational on Saturday with a personal-best time and course-record time of 18:43.1. Earlier in the week, Minton claimed first place in the Navigators' first league meet of the year at North Beach, finishing the 3.1-mile course in 21 minutes, 13 seconds.

Comment on last week's performance: "I was actually surprised with my performance. I kind of felt like I didn't believe I could do it. I always wanted to learn how to cut it out more. I did that on Saturday - one of the best races I ever ran."

Comment from coach Bill Kehoe: "Joscelyn ran a smart race never giving up after Torin Shriver opened a big lead. She is a runner that prepares well and runs and is confident in her training and ability."

What's an interesting fact about yourself?: "I like 80s music. I like movies and shows from the 80s."

If you could meet any professional athlete, who would it be?: "Steve Prefontaine. He reminds me of me competitive-wise. I think we'd get along."

What are your college plans?: "I'm waiting to see what comes up or what will happen. I'm keeping my options open."

Favorite class at Northwest Christian: "I really like my Bible class. Overall, my favorite class is U.S. history."

What's it like running against larger schools?: I really like the whole B school thing. It's a lot of pressure, but I've learned to get over that. Bigger schools just have more people that go to those schools.

What the best part about running cross country?: "I get to hang out with my friends and encourage the team. I get to hang with my coach, too."

DREW BLACKNER

Capital tennis

Age: 17

Year: Senior

Lives in: Olympia

Family: Parents, Greg and Deneen; siblings, Ellice, Becca and Adam

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