When you're close, you feel like you've done well. As dominant as she is, there's good reason to think her career will continue toward a peak in the future. Her late start in running could help. Girls who started distance running in elementary school have often dominated in high school, only to fizzle in college. Lilienthal's legs are still young in track years.
Female athletes tend to get that burned-out feeling at an early age.
In addition, her light frame provides less stress on her legs and feet, Grant said. This weekend will be her curtain call at Drake Stadium. Stands filled with cheering fans will have one more chance to witness the irony - an athlete who tried to avoid failure and became the most successful one ever. Won state title, completed unbeaten season. Won state title, completed unbeaten season.