Name:Christopher Mondie
School:Jackson Academy (Mississippi)
Q: What does your training look like right now given the current situation?
A:Actually, over the past few months I have been doing a lot of running, conditioning exercises, core strengthening, and healthier eating. My running consists of alternating a 4 mile run with 400m or 800m several times a week. I run either in my subdivision or on the track field.And, I do upper and lower body weight training 3 times a week.I do these activities in the evenings.I increased my water intake to 1.5 gallons a day.And, I give my body Wednesdays and Sundays off for recovery.I started this in January in preparation of the Track season and decided to keep this schedule.
Q:What are you doing to stay busy other than run right now?
A:We began virtual classes at Jackson Academy within one week of the COVID-19, so I actually still have class.Five of my 7 classes meet virtually.That consumes my weekdays Monday - Thursday from 9:30a to 2:00p.After that, I spend time studying, talking with my friends on the phone, watching old NCAA meets and Olympic events online, and playing video games sometime.
Q:What was your most memorable race/moment?
A:In the state championship meet last year in May, it rained the entire day.My team and I won first place in the 4x4 and 4x2 and I placed first in the 400m.That was a very hard day because I have never ran rain like that.But it was actually fun and showed us our strength, trust in each other, and teamwork.Our coaches kept us motivated the entire time.
Q:What was the funniest thing that happened during your running career?
A:Last year in March 2019 I was running the 400m and for some reason my shoes were not tied tight.I did not realize it until I took off.Of course, they fell off.I had to make a split second decision to stop running or keep going.I did not give it a second thought.I finished the race in only my socks.I came in first place anyway.My feet were hurting afterwards, but I knew quitting was not an option.Needless to say, there were so many jokes on the sidelines and at school the next day.
Q: Who would you consider your biggest competition over your four years?
A:There is this one guy that runs for MRA or PREP.He and I are always neck and neck for each event.It's a really fun competitive thing we have.He keeps me on my toes because he is always right there beside me or close by when I cross the finish line.I can't recall his name.
Q: What was your greatest accomplishment?
A:When I got the MVP for Track last year.That was absolutely great and my coaches are the best motivators.
Q: If you could do it all over again what would you change about your
running career in high school?
A: When I was in 10th grade it was half way through indoor season when I realized I was underperforming.I realized that I was not eating properly and that was impacting my running and speed.I am so much more aware of what foods I need to eat to fuel my stamina and body more and I made that adjustment quickly.
Q: What will you miss the most?
A:If we don't have a track season this year.I will bea little disappointed because of the hard work we all have been putting in to make our senior track season the best.
Q: What advice would you give to younger athletes?
A:Stick with it.There will be multiple instances while you are growing up where you will want to do other things other than track or in its place by not attending practices, but if you do, when the season begins you will be beating yourself up about it because your body might not be ready.Go to practice.It will pay off and your body will thank you.
Q: What kind of an impact has your coach had on you and your team?
A:Our coaches are great motivators and keeps our morale up during this COVID stuff.They work with each athlete and helpthem further develop their skills.They place athletes were they will have the greatest impact and success individually and with the rest of the team.
Q: What are your college plans?
A:To attend a four-year college/university and major in Biomedical or Chemical Engineering and contribute to the research and world around us.And, I would love to run track on the college level.
Q: Who would you like to say 'thank you' to?
A:My mother.She is my greatest supporter and gives so much of herself.And, also to my coach, Coach Walker, and the coaching staff at Jackson Academy..
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add?
A:I would love to run track in college.I am passionate about this sport and enjoy it.
Q: Favorite Meal?
A:Off-season:The All-Star Breakfast at Waffle House
Pre-Season and In-season:Lots of fruit, salad with chicken, lots of water, and vegetables.
Q: If you could be any animal what would you choose? and why?
A:A hawk because of their ability to fish and hunt.
Q: Your favorite superhero?
A:Don't have one.Sorry.