Get To Know U: Luca Bhalla
Get to Know U is a series that introduces the members of the Miami Hurricanes track and field and cross country programs.
In the last edition, we met graduate transfer distance runner Nathan Kuck. The latest Get to Know U highlights sophomore hurdler Luca Bhalla.
Athlete Name: Luca Bhalla
Year in School: Sophomore
Major: Undecided Arts and Sciences
Hometown: New York, New York
Q&A
1.Why did you decide to attend the University of Miami?
“The University of Miami has a very rich athletic history and such prestigious academic programs that it really stood out while I was looking for schools to transfer to. I couldn’t see myself being a part of anything else.”
2. What was the best aspect of being part of Miami’s Track & Field teams so far?
“So far, the thing that stands out to me is the relationship with myself and my group of the other sprinters/hurdlers. Coach Diego [Flaquer] is a great coach and really is there for each of us on and off the track, which makes a huge difference in the attitude and spirit of our group.”
3. What are some of your goals for the season?
“This season I hope to run as many personal bests as possible and be able to progress week by week. All of us want to see this team be the best that it can be and this is how we do it, one step forward at a time.”
4. What do you feel was the biggest challenge you came across in since your arrival?
“Since starting college last year, it was a personal challenge to know what I need to do in order to keep myself healthy and get the most out of each practice. Since then, I’ve learned a lot and hope I can use that knowledge to make the best out of this season.”
5. What is the biggest difference between your previous training and training at the University of Miami?
“The biggest difference from last year is Coach Diego’s conditioning workouts. 500’s and 2-minute runs are hard to adjust to, but I’m working on it and just aiming for each session to be a little better than the last. Besides that, I am going over hurdles much earlier this year than last, which will make it much easier once we have to do it in competition.”
6. What do you do to prepare right before a meet?
“Before a meet, aside from being sure I’m well rested, hydrated, and fed, I really find what music I listen to important. I like to have a playlist ready the day before that has me feeling confident and relaxed before stepping on the line.”
7. What do you do away from practice and studying to relax?
“I used to play a lot of guitar when I was little and, unfortunately, never played as much as I used to since taking up track. Whenever I have some time to myself, I play as much as I can. I also love to get on my Xbox and play with some of my friends back home. It’s a good way to keep in touch.”
8. What are three words to describe you and why?
Devoted – I feel like whatever I do, I try to make my life about it.
Honest – growing up, my parents always taught me the value of telling the truth and I’ll always do what I can to adhere to that.
Adventurous – I love to try new things and take myself out of my comfort zone.
Fill in the Blank
Coral Gables is different from my hometown because: Being from New York, I feel like it’s cold up there all the time. I love the weather here.
Favorite Movie: The Godfather
Favorite TV Show: South Park
Favorite Music Artist: Vybz Kartel
Favorite Meal: I’m half Indian and half Italian, so anything from those cuisines are my favorites
Interesting fact about me: Before track, I used to play a lot of soccer and am still a big fan of the sport, I watch Manchester United play every week and never miss a game, even if I have to record it and watch it later that day.
