Aguilera holds the second fastest collegiate mark ever in the steeple (Alex Moore) |
Talk about a near record performance. Arizona State senior Lisa Aguilera, the school and Pac-10 record holder in the 3,00m steeplechase, bettered her mark in the event with a time of 9:46.30 at the West Regional Championships.
Aguilera’s time was just three seconds off the NCAA record and five seconds away from the United States record. As she holds the second fastest time ever recorded at the collegiate level, Aguilera will have the spotlight on her as one of the favorites for the national title in Sacramento.
With her near collegiate record time and possible national championship title ahead, you would figure that Aguilera looks up to people older and more experienced than her level. However, that trend is just the opposite.
“I look up to those athletes that work really hard and always have an optimistic attitude,” explained the PAC 10 record holder.
“On my team now, I look up to two freshmen, Amy Hastings and Jessica Scalzo. As a senior, they remind me of how to keep that fire and desire to be great! I remember when I was freshman everything was so new, every meet was a new experience and we got to travel all over the U.S.”
Named the first-team Academic All-American in cross country and third-team selection in track and field, Aguilera knows it’s important to focus on the books as well.
“I have always felt like my studies had to be balanced with athletics,” said Aguilera.
“While I enjoy running, I have never wanted to make running the only thing in my life. I know it’s really hard to run and also have a career, but I really want to have both.”
With a double major in Computer Systems Engineering and Finance, the sky appears to be the limit for what the school-record holder wishes to accomplish.
“I would like a job that allows a lot of creativity,” continued Aguilera. “My plan for this summer is to get a part-time job in the Computer Engineering field. I’ve never really worked before, so I am really excited to see what a typical day will be like.”
Looking beyond the NCAA Outdoor Championships is what many elite athletes have to face with competitions such as the USA Outdoor meet just around the corner.
“I am definitely aiming to compete at the USA Championships, and if they decide to have an exhibition steeplechase race in Paris, I would love to go,” said Aguilera.
With her fitness level at an all-time high, this could be the year for even more record-breaking performances in the women’s 3000 meter steeplechase. It should be an exciting night of affairs as the final is scheduled for Friday, June 13th at 10:50pm EST.
Is sub 9:40 possible? Don’t put that question past Lisa Aguilera or you just might be in for another record setting performance.
Aguilera and the Sun Devils next head to the NCAA Championships beginning June 11 in Sacramento. The meet spans four days at Hornet Field on the campus of Sacramento State University.