Growing up, senior Colleen Megerle of Colts Neck watched her parents and older siblings run. Now, her family returns the favor as she prepares for state championships.

Megerle has been running since the seventh grade and now runs for her home high school, Colts Neck. She has won many awards, both individually and with her team.

“I have four individual sectional titles,” Megerle said. “And my team has won two consecutive state titles in XC and two state relay titles in track.”

Megerle is proud of her achievements and said they motivate her to continue running, even when it feels impossible.

“t’s hard when you feel like all your training isn’t paying off in a certain race, and it’s frustrating,” Megerle said. “But you just have to push through the low points because then it’ll start to pay off and you’ll see the results you’re looking for.”

Megerle loves the team aspect of running and has made some of her best friends through this, she said. They have many traditions, but one of her favorites takes place during the holidays.

“We do a really extra Secret Santa during Winter Track and it’s 3 days long,” Megerle said. “The first day, you decorate the person’s locker and put food in it, the second day, you get them a little gift and then the third day you get them a big gift.”

As she approaches the end of her high school career, Megerle said  running is definitely a factor when choosing schools.

“I’m looking at colleges right now for running. I’m taking official visits to hang out with the teams and see what I like,” she said.

Megerle’s talent and passion “runs” in her family, and she hopes it will stay with her for at least the next four years.