Athlete of the Week: Olivia Ortiz

Lakewood Ranch High junior Olivia Ortiz crossed the finish line in 18 minutes, 49.27 seconds to finish first overall at the 19th Annual Canes Classic 5K Sept. 5 at G.T. Bray Park. The 16-year-old followed up her victory with a second-place finish (18:26.30) at the Déjà Vu Invitational Sept. 9 in Tampa. Here is an inside look at this week’s Athlete of the Week.

How did it feel to win the Canes Classic in your first time running it?
It was good. I ran the Canes Classic to get my race legs under me, but a win is awesome. I can’t complain.

What was it like running the Déjà Vu Invitational?
I really like it — although the weather made it more like an adventure run. It was great competition. I knew some of the best teams in the state were going to be there, so right off the bat, we faced some of the top competition in 3A in the state.

What are your goals for yourself this season?
I hope to get under 18 minutes. This summer, I trained really hard. I ran over 500 miles.

Of the three sports that you play, at which are you the most successful?
Cross country. I think I have better endurance than quick speed. Cross country is scenery rather than running around the track eight times. I like longer distances.

If you could play one other sport for a day, what would it be?
Swimming or tennis. They’re just so different compared to running. (In) swimming, you are in the pool all day, and I think tennis in general is a really cool Florida sport.

Do you have a favorite food?
I love peanut butter. I eat it every day with something. I could eat it out of the jar.

Who is your biggest role model?
My parents. They made me who I am today. They taught me to be myself and about character and respect, and I can’t thank them enough.

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
Europe. There’s all of the history. We talk so much about it —I want to see it myself.

The East County Observer and Bogey’s Restaurant and Sports Pub have teamed up to showcase the East County’s top athletes. Each recipient’s article will be featured on the restaurant’s wall.