Being a student and an athlete at the same time can be a difficult balance, but junior Rudy Frazier has a track record of making it work. On March 13-16, Frazier represented FCHS on a national level, competing at the New Balance Nationals Indoor track and field meet in Boston, Massachusetts.

Held each year, the New Balance Nationals bring together the best high school athletes from across the country, and Frazier was among those talented competitors. She qualified for the 1600m, which is the mile, after a standout season in the 1000m, 3200m, and 800m indoor track events. Frazier’s road to the event took a lot of time and determination.

“Going to nationals took a lot of extra training. I couldn’t just go to practice, but I had to weightlift in the mornings and incorporate plyometrics and core in the afternoons. Also, nutrition and mental health were super important, and I kept up with that by eating well and relying on my coaches and loved ones for support,” said Frazier.

Coach Robert Burger, the Fluvanna track and field coach, had high praise for Frazier’s dedication.

“Over the years, Ruby has shown steady improvement, and her dedication to training has helped her to excel in her events. She has a very determined mindset that makes her destined to succeed, and her willingness to be coached has been phenomenal,” said Burger.

After all her preparation, Frazier said she gave the national event her all.

“I ended up running a 5:02.00 for the full mile at New Balance, and I was satisfied with the time. I’m grateful for the race experience, because not only did it help out with recruiting, but it was also a reflection of a successful indoor season,” she said.