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Carleton College

Profiles of coaches and student athletes

Student-Athlete Profile: Irene Koplinka-Loehr '10

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

What do you like most about Carleton?

I love the people at Carleton. Each person is so genuine and passionate, it is inspiring to know each and every one.

Can you think of any favorite moments from your time running at Carleton?

My favorite moment running at Carleton was after Cross-country Nationals in 2006. We ran the whole race through 1.5 feet of mud and upon completion we had a team mud fight/slide. It was pretty amazing...

What goals do you have for yourself for the season?

This season I am coming off a low number of miles, so I hope to work to get into shape by midway through the season so that I can really contribute to the team at the end of the season. I also plan on being a strong captain on the team, this is a rebuilding year and I want to ensure that our team is rebuilt well.

What was it like to compete in a MIAC Championship?

Invigorating: there is so much energy in the air and so much power. You feel like you are being pushed from behind and pulled from the front. The team is pumped, the MIAC is pumped, you are pumped...fuel, fire, and the hot desire...that is all that you need for success.

Has college athletics been what you expected?

In some ways yes (strong competition, good workouts, traveling to various places around the country to compete), but in other ways I was pleasantly surprised. I love the team atmosphere, hanging out on the weekends, pasta parties before big meets, the support, the friendship, the conversations on long runs...there is a deeper beauty to it all that by looking at a group of runners you would never see. The trials of miles and the miles of trials.