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Rosie Mucharsky thrives across a wide range of events--from the mile to cross country to even the 400. But when it comes to the 800 meters, there's no question: it's her race. In the state of Colorado, her claim to the event is second to none. This year, in the state's largest school division, Rosie captured her third straight 800m title.
Building To A Peak
Her crescendo began two weeks before state, at the league meet. Without strong competition to pace her, Rosie took control early. "I just decided to go out and take it from the beginning... I think I ran a 61 first lap," she said. She crossed the line in 2:08, a lifetime best.
The next breakthrough came a week later at St. Vrain Invitational. With no pressure to post a fast time to qualify for state, Rosie tested herself against top competition. "My coach said, if somebody goes, go with them... I want to be in the top two at all times." She stayed with Addi Ritzenhein through a tough third lap, then kicked hard in the final 200m. "I just felt really good and strong, and I trusted my training." Her finish proved she could go toe-to-toe with elite fields and still close hard.
Her training had been layered and intentional. She watches her HRV, checks post-workout heart rate data, and isn't afraid to cross-train when needed. "I look at the heart rate after, just to see what rep was the most difficult or most mentally or physically straining."
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