The Extra Mile with Stephanie Garcia

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Stephanie Garcia became Virginia’s most recent national champion with her victory in the steeplechase at the US Junior National Championships in July, 2007. Since that run, she has finished in the top-five in every race for the 2007 cross country team, helping the Cavaliers to a title at the season-opening Lou Onesty Invitational. Garcia and the rest of the Cavaliers will compete in the 2007 ACC Championships on Saturday, Oct. 27 at 10 a.m. at Panorama Farms in Earlysville.

Years of competitive running: Six

My favorite place to run: O-Hill because it is both challenging and comforting; I try to run there at least once a week.

My most memorable race: The steeplechase at the East Regional Championships during the 2007 outdoor season; I ran a personal best and qualified for NCAA Nationals.

Race I would like to run: Steeplechase in the Olympic Trials

My favorite Olympic event: Gymnastics

My favorite book: The Time Travelers Wife by Audrey Niffenegger

Music I listen to when I run: If I did listen to music, it would be upbeat hip-hop and 80s jams.

My favorite pre-race meal: Bagels and cereal

If I didn’t run, I would be: Writing for various publications.

My favorite place at UVa: The Gardens.

When I don’t run, I: Write for the Cavalier Daily and V Magazine, bake and read.