Krais’ Final Hurdle
By: Kristen Holzherr
Ryann Krais was nothing but smiles when she walked off the track after winning her last race as a high school athlete in the 300 hurdles. When at the starting grid, Krais looked calm and prepared for the race she had ahead of her. After going over the first couple of hurdles, Krais was ahead by over one second, and she came out triumphant in her race. After falling in the 100 hurdles, Krais showed how much of a stand-up athlete and courageous person she was. She got back up and continued running, and even though she was disqualified, she came out of the race knowing that she could improve in the 300 hurdles. The hardest part of being an athlete is being able to get back up after making a mistake or falling, and still being able to go on as if nothing ever happened. Watching Ryann Krais run is like hearing an amazing song for the first time, and you know nobody's saying it, but everybody's thinking it, we have something to believe in again. As a spectator, no one has ever seen anyone who has the kind of talent that Krais has, the kind of strength and confidence she has that leads her to victory in the toughest of races. She has led Methacton to numerous wins throughout her four years as a Lady Warrior, and in her senior year, single-handedly won the PA State Meet title. Ryann has fans everywhere she goes, because she's not only one of the best at what she does, she's a role model. She will gladly take a picture with you, sign an autograph or talk to you about being an athlete and the struggles one can face. Krais has become a person who anyone can look up to or call a hero, she's just that gifted and inspirational. Going on to UCLA next year, there is no doubt that she will continue her outstanding track career, and break some more records. Anyone would be proud to say they competed against her in a race, proud to say that they know her, proud to say that she's their hero. For four years, Ryann Krais has had jaws dropping, crowds cheering, and everyone in awe. But one thing is for sure… she will be greatly missed!
Ryann Krais Methacton (100m = 13.75/-0.1 wind & 300m = 41.68)
Q) What did you do to prepare for this meet after districts?
A) Well, we actually ended up not having great weather this week, I mean I guess you saw, it was raining and stuff. So we spent a lot of time inside doing drills with the high jump and the long jump, and the one of the days we got to go outside and kind of just run through what the meet was going to be.
Q) You've led Methacton to many wins throughout your four years, why do you think you have been so successful?
A) It's a team thing you know, I've got a bunch of girls on my team that I hear cheering and even though we're all in competitions too.
Q) In your opinion, what has been your greatest accomplishment in track and field?
A) I think I'd say last year in Indy, with the heptathlon and the 400 hurdles, I had two PR's that weekend.
Q) What do you like so much about competing in the hurdles?
A) I always loved racing on the track, and just when you put hurdles in there it makes it even more exciting.
Q) Next weekend you will be facing Jackie Coward in New Mexico, what do you think the outcome of this race will be?
A) Whoever wins its gonna be a great race, absolutely. I mean more than just Jackie will be there, it'll be quick, and that's what I'm looking for.
Q) What will you miss the most about high school track and field and being on the Methacton team?
A) As I said before I love the girls, I love the coach; it's just my home, it's where I came from, it's where everything started and its gonna be sad to leave that. But I'm ready for the next step.
