Watch 2021 NMAA State A,2A,3A State Track and Field Championships Here

Watch 2021 NMAA State 4A, 5A Track and Field Championships Here

Alyx Mastor

Dawning a new uniform, Cottonwood Classical's (formerly Taos) Alyx Mastor is back to impressive performances including the 2021 3A State Cross Country Champion to go along with her team title. This track season has been just as dominant as she has only runner-up performance to her resume this spring/summer. Today we find out more about Alyx in our Getting to Know New Mexico Athletes Series.

When did you first start competing in track and field, and do you recall any of your childhood competitions?

I first started competing in 6th grade. Yes I remember my first cross race because my teammate got a bloody nose during the race and unrelated... I walked a lot of it.

Was there a certain moment when you realized you'd be able to compete at such a high level?

No, not really my focus has always been to just enjoy running. I've always enjoyed the practices and pushing myself and just run for fun.

What are some bumps in the road that you've encountered when it comes to training for different events during the season?

I think I'n track it can be challenging to be fast at all three distance events (3200, 1600, and 800) because they are all so different and require different training.

How did COVID impact your training as you prepared for the season?

For me, COVID made it challenging to stay motivated. There were many times were I wasn't putting my best effort into my runs or wasn't running at all because the seasoning getting cancelled and postponed was very discouraging.

If you had to pick: Track and Field or Cross Country, and why?

Cross country for sure. I live the sense of team you feel during the meets and season. I also like the variation that cross country courses can give. You can get hills, sand, and grass all in one race while during track it's all the same.

How is the college recruiting process going, and what schools are you looking at?

Very slowly. I haven't looked at many colleges yet.

Is there another track event you wish you were good at? What is appealing about it?

I wish I was good at javelin. The event kind of reminds me of superheroes like WonderWoman and I think it would be so fun and cool!

What are some hobbies and interests you have outside of running?

I like to ride horses, skiing, rock climbing, and doing anything outside

Who is your role model, and why?

One of my role models is Cora Cannedy who was a senior when I was a freshman. Her positive attitude and work ethic was something I always admired and something I strive for now.

Everyone has a bucket list, so give us some of the things on your list!

I want to travel the world and go on exciting adventures like squirrel suiting or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

What is the best advice you have received?

When running- for every negative thought you have, think of at least 3 positive ones

What is your favorite pre-race snack, tradition, etc.?

I don't have many traditions but I always eat quinoa and drink beet juice!

If you could do a sport other than XC/Track, what sport would it be, and why?

I would do rock climbing or free-ride skiing because those are both sports I really enjoy but don't have time to focus on because of running. And they're both crazy fun!