Lauren Replogle
Missouri Cross Country has been on a tear this season, and at the forefront of the success is junior Suzy Lecoutre.
This season, Lecoutre finished first in the Mizzou Opener 5k race with a time of 17 minutes, 4.2 seconds. and 29th place in the 6k race with a time of 20 minutes even at the Gans Creek Classic.
“This year I feel like I’m racing with more excitement and freedom,” Lecoutre said. “I’m a lot more relaxed on the start line, and I’ve been open to taking more risks in races.”
The Tigers’ women’s team is mostly composed of younger runners, as 9 of the 14 are underclassmen. While Lecoutre has only spent one season at Missouri, she’s established a leadership form of leading by example.
“Mostly, I just try to keep things relaxed and set a calm example,” Lecoutre said. “I think that it helps everyone feel at ease and enjoy the sport.”
Having a fast group of runners to race against in practice is something that builds team culture. It comes as no surprise that their recent success has been a direct result of the competition that this group has in practice.
“I feel really lucky to be surrounded by such a talented group,” Lecoutre said. “It makes training and racing more fun, and it creates an environment where everyone is motivated to improve together.”
Lecoutre’s diverse skill set is a key factor the Tigers have relied on throughout their early season races. Lecoutre previously ran in the European circuit, which often sees tougher terrain. Her experience overseas has honed her skills and taught her a considerable amount about how she can be a versatile runner.
Lecoutre transferred from Swansea University, where she was the school record holder in the 800m, 1500m, 3000m and 5000m races, and also represented England in regional and national events.
“Back home, you’ll see mud, huge hills and even technical sections,” Lecoutre said. “Here in the U.S., most courses are faster and smoother, which makes for a different type of racing and a lot quicker times.”
After transferring from Swansea, Lecoutre has been ecstatic about the opportunity she has earned here in Columbia.
“Having Nationals at home at Gans this year has really lit a fire in us to try earning a spot racing there,” Lecoutre said.
Lecoutre is incredibly supportive of the team-forward approach that the NCAA takes. She is in support of the camaraderie that racing together as a unit brings to the locker room.
“It makes racing feel more about the collective effort, which has been a new and motivating experience,” Lecoutre said.
With the postseason quickly approaching, Lecoutre is focused on taking it one day at a time and not putting too much stress on herself in the following weeks. After a couple of successful team outings, the team-forward approach is here to stay for the Tigers.
“I don’t really have any performance-orientated goals,” Lecoutre said. “My goal is simply to keep giving my best effort in every race, keep progressing and hopefully play a role in the team’s success as we move into the big meets.”
Lecoutre and the Tigers will be in action on Saturday, Oct. 18th, at the Pre-National Invitational at Gans Creek.
Edited by Killian Wright | [email protected]
Copy edited by Hannah Halterman and Ava Mohror | [email protected]
Edited by Chase Pray | [email protected]