Butler runner, Victoria Mitchell, takes time out for a Q & A with the Horizon League

Dec. 6, 2005

Why did you decide to attend Butler University? 

I knew Mark Tucker [former Butler runner] had attended Butler, and Joe [Franklin, cross country coach] was able to get me to the U.S. in the shortest time. I didn't want to wait until August.

What was the best aspect of being part of Butler's Cross Country and Track teams? 

 I really enjoyed going away with the team; I had never been involved with such a team oriented running group. I enjoyed the whole atmosphere.

You have accomplished quite a bit while at Butler.  What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment throughout your collegiate career, both athletically and in the classroom? 

Probably my NCAA title [in the 3000m steeplechase] and my 4th at the recent NCAA cross country meet. My biggest accomplishment in the classroom would be organizing a parathlete track and field meet and just completing my Masters.

What do you feel was the biggest challenge you came across in your four years?

When I first came, it was adjusting to the food - I was eating too much! Then, it was overcoming injury, as injury is always a challenge and I don't enjoy cross training at all!

What do you enjoy doing most in the off-season?

 I don't really have an off-season as I have only a short break (maybe a week) between track and cross. I enjoy traveling and hanging out with friends.

Originally being from Australia, was it difficult coming to the U.S. to run?  What was the biggest difference?

Running is much bigger and better in the US. The races are bigger, and there is more depth. which took a bit of getting used to. I enjoy running in the U.S. collegiate system much better than at home. There are also more spectators and atmosphere at events.

What did you do, both individually and as a team, to prepare right before a meet?

We would usually ease off the training and go out to the movies and dinner to socialize a bit more. I don't have any specific rituals or things that I do before a big race, apart from have the second day before a race as a rest day.

Being an excellent student as well, how hard has it been to juggle your academics along with training and meets during your four years?

Being a Graduate student, I think it is easier as we have fewer hours and our lecturers always understand if we have a meet to go to.

What are your career plans after graduation?

I am aiming to be a professional runner; I don't have a back-up plan at the moment.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

The people back home who urged me to come to the U.S. (Rod and Matt Griffin) were a big influence. And for nearly the past two years, Joe Franklin has been a great influence on my running and life.

If you could compete in the Olympics in any sport, other than track, what would it be? 

Equestrian. I was on the State Show jumping Squad when I used to compete in Equestrian back home. 

What TV show would you most like to appear on and why? 

Fear Factor because you get to do things that are out of the ordinary, fun and challenging.

What is your best non-athletic talent?

Being able to play guitar.

What is your favorite thing about Indianapolis?

The people.

What is your favorite restaurant?

The Olive Garden

Where in the world would you like to travel to and why?

Everywhere - I like to see how other people live and visit the wonders of the world.

Who is the most impressive person you have ever met?

Ava Hutchinson

What is your "breakfast of champions?"

High protein, high fiber, crunchy cereal with a sliced banana and fresh blueberries.

Who would you cast to play you in a movie?

I don't know...Brittany Murphy???

If you had to choose one song to be your theme song, what would it be and why?

Probably a song by Alanis Morrisette or Avril Lavigne.

If you could get front row tickets to any concert, now or in the past, which would it be?

Oasis

What is your favorite holiday? 

Christmas

If you could change one thing about your sport, what would it be? 

More fans and followers like other sports (baseball and football).

What do you like to do on a rainy day?

I like running in the rain (but not consecutive days in the rain!), and I like playing games and watching movies.