This week’s athlete of the week is cross-country runner Danielle Opatovsky ’16. The junior finished second in the Smith Invitational race on Saturday, September 6. Opatovsky ran the 5K in 19:45.40, finishing second overall in the race. Smith as a team finished 5 out of the 16 competing teams. The team travels to Williams College to compete at the college’s invitational on September 27.
We sat down with Opatovsky and asked her a few questions:
What is your favorite pre-game snack?
I don’t really eat too much before races. Something bland with electrolytes…but I do drink coffee. I won’t run without coffee.
Do you have any pre-game rituals?
I have an hour-long warm-up routine that the team does, but other than that I try to stay outside of my head as much as I can. I crack a lot of jokes about how painful the race is going to be. Humor is the best way to cope.
What is your favorite thing about the team this year?
My team is amazing this year. They’re my best friends. I like the vibe of the team – very calm but determined.
What is your favorite movie?
I answered this question once before with the “Life Aquatic,” but the truth is I have a hard time staying still through movies. I can’t sit for 2 plus hours; it’s literal torture.
What has been your favorite class at Smith, and why?
The philosophy colloquium I took on sustainability last year – it changed my views on environmentalism.
What are your personal and team goals for this season?
My personal goal is to make it to the NCAA nationals. I’ve been training and it’s time I do it already. Our team goal is to be third at NEWMACs and take down some Wellesley girls.
