Although she is a distance runner, Courtney Anderson has sprinted into the California State University, Stanislaus record book. The junior transfer from American River College burst into the track and field record book by shattering the school record in the 3,000 meter race on March 10th at UC Davis. Courtney’s time of 9 minutes and 52 seconds beat the school record that had stood for 22 years by 12 seconds, which in track and field is an eternity. The time also beat Courtney’s own personal best by more than 22 seconds. Courtney, a history major, has competed in other distance events so far this season, like the 2,000 and 3,000 meter steeplechase, the 1 mile run, and the 4 x 400 meter relay. Courtney is determined to go the distance and enjoy a successful career at CSU Stanislaus.
What brought you to CSU Stanislaus?
I first heard about Stanislaus from my best friend and roommate Claire Jenkins.  Claire and I competed together at American River College in Sacramento.  She told me about how great the program was here and got me in touch with Coach Taylor.  Coach Taylor had me come out for a visit and I immediately fell in love with the team and the campus.   
Why did you choose distance running?
In high school I originally started off as a 300 meter hurdler and sprinter.  During my senior year, my coach came up to me and said that cross country would help keep me in shape for track.  So, I decided to give it a try and eventually I fell in love with running distance.  When it came time to choose a college, I knew that I wanted to continue running, however, I was not fast enough to go to a four year.  My high school coach, Mr. Gregson, put me in touch with Coach Powless at American River College.  Coach Gregson and Coach Powless immediately knew that the steeplechase would be a great event for me because of my hurdling background and running distance.   
How did it feel to shatter the school record in the 3,000m?
It felt pretty awesome because I wasn’t even thinking about the school record before the race.  All I was thinking about was trying to stay with the Chico girls.  They pretty much pulled me along the whole race, which was great!
What is your goal for time in the 3,000m?
Unfortunately, we probably won’t run the 3,000 meter again this year. But, my goal time for next year is 9:40.
What events do you compete in?
Pretty much any distance event. The 800 meter, 1500 meter, 5k and the 3,000 meter Steeplechase.
What is your favorite event?
Definitely the Steeplechase.  
What is the steeplechase?
The steeplechase is a distance event that consists of five barriers around the track.  One barrier has a water pit on the other side that you have to jump over.  The race is 200 meters short of two miles.  
What makes you so successful at running distance events?
That’s a tough question.  I would have to say having a strong faith in God has helped me throughout my life, on and off the track.  Also, doing all of the little things like getting enough sleep, doing drills, and staying positive make a huge difference.  
What is your favorite part of being a track and field athlete?
My favorite part about being a track and field athlete is being with the team.  We have all become such great friends, we are practically family.  It’s great being around so many people that share the same passion as you and push you every day in workouts.
What do you hope to achieve in your two years at CSU Stanislaus?
One of my biggest goals is to make it to nationals in Colorado at the end of the season.  Next season for cross country my goal is to run in the 21:00’s for the 6k.  
What about running makes it fun for you?
Running is so much fun because it is such a tough sport, yet so rewarding.  All your hard work pays off when you hit the times that you want.  Plus, being around the team and laughing all the time makes it pretty fun too.   
Did you use to play any other sports?
I used to play basketball and soccer up until my senior year.