Northeast High School freshman Jan'Taijah Ford had a spectacular 2016 season. Ford, or T1 as they call her, ran away with the 3A state title in the 400m dash in 54.01s and followed that up with a new personal best time of 53.77 to win Flo Golden South and give her an automatic ticket to the Brooks PR Invitational. We caught up with her to talk about her training leading up to Saturday, what she's looking forward to, and much more.
Flrunners.com: When did you first learn that you were invited to the Brooks PR Invite and how did your react?
Jan'Taijah Ford; I learned I was invited to the Brooks PR meet after winning the 400m at the Flo Golden South Classic. I was excited to hear such great news.
FLR: What does it mean to you to be invited to the Brooks PR Invitational?
JF: It means a lot to me to get this opportunity because this was one of the goals I wanted to accomplish this year.
FLR: What do you hope to achieve at the meet?
JF: I am hoping to achieve a new PR.
FLR: How has your training been leading up to the meet?
JF: Training has been going good. I have been doing 450's and broken 400's for the most part.
FLR: What are you most looking forward about your trip, race and weekend at the Brooks PR Invitational in Seattle?
JF: I am looking forward to meeting some great athletes and accomplishing my goal of running a low 53 or a 52.
FLR: What music do you listen to before races?
JF: I often listen to "Put a praise on it" by Tasha Cobbs.
FLR: If you were stranded on an island with three things what would they be?
JF: Prayer, survival kit, and clothing.
FLR: What would you consider as your best or most favorite race of all-time and why?
JF: I would consider my best race this year was the 4x400 at the state meet because it felt good to beat Northwestern after losing to them in prior races throughout the season.
FLR: What are some things un-running related people might not know about you?
JF: I love to ride ATV's.
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