Hurricanesports.com Sits Down With Charles Michel
Sept. 24, 2009
CORAL GABLES – After two races into the 2009 cross country season, junior Charles Michel has distinguished himself as the University of Miami’s top male cross country runner and will be counted on to improve the program’s stock come the ACC Championships in late October.
Michel took time out of his busy schedule and sat down with hurricanesports.com and answered some questions on his experiences at Miami.
Why did you decide to attend the University of Miami?
I chose the University of Miami for its academic offerings and for the opportunity to compete for its track and cross country teams.
What was the best aspect of being part of Miami’s cross country and track teams?
Representing a storied program of successful runners and defending the honor of a renowned athletic department.
You have accomplished quite a bit while at Miami. What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment throughout your collegiate career, both athletically and in the classroom?
Athletically, competing in the ACC Championships after transferring here in the spring of 2009. It took a great deal of training and sacrifice to be able to participate at the caliber of the ACC. In terms of academics, I am proud to say that I earned “Book Buster” honors for that spring semester, while adjusting to the school and training for the season.
What are some of your goals for the 2009 cross country season?
I would like to see the men’s cross-country team bond together into a tight pack throughout the season and finish amid the top 10 teams in the ACC.
What did you do, both individually and as a team, to prepare right before a meet?
Individually, I like to take many deep breaths the entire day of the race. I know that I will be in oxygen debt during the contest, so I tell myself that I better enjoy the air at that moment. I try to prepare my teammates by staying relaxed and reminding them of what we have done up to that point. “Don’t worry about the horse being blind, just load the wagon”.
Being an excellent student as well, how hard has it been to juggle your academics along with training and meets during your four years?
It’s definitely difficult, but the physical training allows me to be able to sit and focus on my schoolwork. Also, after 6 am practices and weights, I feel that I can conquer anything for the rest of the day.
What are your career plans after graduation?
I honestly have no idea at this point. However, I do plan on coaching at some time in my life.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career?
My high school cross country coach saw potential and instilled the confidence in me that I needed to compete at the collegiate level.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of Miami’s SAAC?
Hearing about the accomplishments and woes of other teams. The University of Miami’s athletic department is really like a family, and it’s great to be able to come together with the goal of bridging athletics and academics.
What do you do away from running and studying to relax?
I love to follow football at the collegiate and pro levels. It lets me focus away from training and studying. There is no better place than the University of Miami for me to indulge in this hobby. Go Canes!
