Seventh grader Nadia Stauder Lopez began her competitive running journey last year. 

“I’ve been officially running for two years, but I’ve done the 5 km for a long time,” Lopez said. 

With both parents being marathon runners, it wasn’t long before Nadia found her own talent in this sport. 

“Running feels enriching because it’s just you and your thoughts,” Lopez said. “You don’t have to rely on anyone else.”

Lopez is determined to perform well in her sport. You can tell based on her rigorous daily training. She balances running with strength training and an occasional game of field hockey, believing these elements will make her a better athlete all around. 

“I try to consistently run every day, and I do strength training at least three times a week,” Lopez said.

Her training includes pull-ups, rowing, squats and calf raises. Additionally, Nadia participates in winter running, making sure she stays in shape even in colder months when many athletes might take a break. Her favorite races are the mid-distance events because they are a mix of sprinting and stamina. 

“I really like doing the 1 Mile (600 meter dash), because it’s the perfect combination of endurance and speed,” Lopez said. 

While she knows she isn’t the best at short sprints or marathons, Nadia excels at the middle distance. She showcases her remarkable athletic ability at running meets and competitions. Nadia’s dedication and passion towards the sport have already led to impressive accomplishments.

“I got 5th in the Ann Arbor Cross Country Race. I also frequently got 1st place on the Clague’s Girls Cross Country team,” Lopez said.

Nadia has set ambitious goals for her high school career. 

“I want to get into the Skyline Varsity Cross Country Team and the Skyline Varsity Track,” Lopez said. 

With her passion, Nadia continues to be one of the top female middle school runners in Ann Arbor and looks to make a significant impact in the running community.