Interview With Chloe Bermel


Chloe at the 2016 State Championships with her parents and brother Caleb (photo provided by Chloe Bermel)

First of all, how did you first start doing track?

I always knew I would be a runner. When I was younger I raced my parent's car to see how fast I could go. I always participated in elementary track and field day then joined track in middle school then varsity team in 7th grade.

What are all your personal records?

100-12.26

200-25.03 (school record)

400-55.67 (school, class A State record)

Do you do, or have you done, any sports other than track?

I played soccer and hockey at a younger age, and basketball in middle level. And I've been horseback riding and showing horses for forever.

What is your favorite or most memorable race you have ever run?

My most memorable race was winning the 400 and beating Class A record in at State in 2016

Who are some of your favorite athletes to compete against (other than your own teammates)?

My favorite athletes to compete against are all the ones at State competitions because they push me to run my best.

What are your main goals for this upcoming season?

My main goals are to beat the all-time state record in the 400 and also the 4x400.

So you probably won't try for the triple (100/200/400) again this year if you do the 4x400?

This year for state I won't be running the 200 because of the recovery time I need for my more focused events. My goal is to go in the 4x400, and 400 but have not yet figured out what my third event will be. 

Your 400 time dropped a lot last year. Did you ever think you would be able to run as fast as you did last year, or did it come as a surprise?

My sophomore year I did not run the open 400, I only ran it in the 4x400. I personally never thought I would be running this fast but I have great coaches that believe in me. I was much more focused and in shape going into my junior year which helped me get a good head start.


Chloe's top-five finishes in three events helped Pequot Lakes along to a third-place finish as a team (photo provided by Chloe Bermel)

Do you have any college plans?

I plan on running track at SDSU. 

What ultimately attracted you to SDSU? Also, who are you excited to be running with that is currently on the team (or perhaps will also be going there next year)?

SDSU was just the right fit for me. The small town is pleasing to me and the campus is set up very nice. On the track side, their indoor facility is amazing and I hope to be an asset on their team. A former athlete from my high school,  Venessa Lane, is currently running for SDSU so I am most excited to run with her one last year. To sum up SDSU overall, I would call it "the hidden gem."

Do you have any rituals or superstitions either on or off the track?

When I get into my blocks I always say my favorite Bible verse: Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me"

When not at the track or trying to set records, what might we find you doing?

The main thing you would find me doing outside of track is riding and training horses.

What is the name of your favorite horse?

Having a favorite horse is like a mother having a favorite child. The names of my horses are Pilgrim, Magic, and Spartan.

Tell me one bizarre fact about yourself.

I am actually pretty lazy.

Define "lazy." 

For example, when given the chance I will be snuggled up in blankets and watch movies all day.