Putting her time and energy into running allows Tori Pham to enjoy positive results. Cross country and track make her a stronger person physically, mentally and socially. Now a senior at Tahlequah High School, Tori is prepared for future challenges. 

“It [running] has taught me that sticking with something, even when it’s hard, will pay off. Sometimes there are workouts I don’t feel like doing, or don’t want to do, but when I make myself do them anyway, I improve. This applies toschoolwork that seems tedious or difficult, or even something as simple as being punctual. I’ve learned that good habits pay off,” Tori said.

She says the best part of a team is being surrounded by people that always have your back. “They understand you and how hard you work every day. Some of my best friends come from the team.” 

Tori did not embrace track immediately. “I ran in middle school, but it was just for fun with my friends and was the least prioritized of my hobbies. Coach (David) Spears was the coach then, and he encouraged me to keep running in high school. That is when I really began focusing on it,” she said. “I’d like to thank coach Spears and coach (Elzy) Miller for their passion for the sport and belief in me because it’s contagious, and my parents for their support with everything.”

The best advice comes from Tori’s biggest inspiration, her mom. She is full of optimism and encouragement. “My mom has always told me to ‘drink more water’ whenever I have a problem, and it actually helps solve a lot of them,” she said.

Teammate and co-captain, McKenna Hood, has left a big impression on Tori because of her work ethic. “McKennaalways gets her run in, no matter the circumstances,” Tori said.

Her favorite teacher, Mrs. Melissa Harris, gets to know and include every student, even the ones she doesn’t teach. The athlete Tori most looks up to is Simone Biles. “Before I was a runner, I was a gymnast. She is the best of the best and speaks up for herself and what she believes in,” Tori said.