Eagan runner hits her stride at right time

Danielle Anderson of Eagan gradually has been climbing the ladder of Class 2A girls' cross-country runners in the state during her junior season.

Anderson recently won the South Suburban Conference crown with a time of 14 minutes, 30.3 seconds over the 4,000-meter course at Eagan High School. She will look to continue her climb toward the top when she competes in the Section 3 meet Wednesday at the Les Bolstad/University of Minnesota Golf Course.

She finished 23rd in the state meet a year ago with a time 15:08.6 at St. Olaf College in Northfield. Anderson wound up nearly 50 seconds behind returning state champion junior Maria Hauger of Shakopee. This year's state meet is set for Nov. 5.

Anderson also runs track for the Wildcats. Here is a closer look at Anderson:

The best movie I've seen in the last year? "The Help."

Three songs I never skip on my iPod are ...? "You And I" by Lady Gaga; "Good Life" by Kanye West; "Moves Like Jagger" by Christina Aguilera.

Three words or phrases my friends or teammates might use to describe me? Determined, modest, hard working.

How did you get started in cross-country and track? When I used to play soccer, people told me I should be in track and cross-country. Also, my gym teacher in middle school, Mr. Broughton, recommended that I join the team.

What did you work on in the offseason to prepare for 2011-12? Increasing my mileage and strength training.

What are your goals for the 2011-2012 school year as an athlete? Place in the top three in the [Class 2A] cross-country state meet, as well as having our team qualify for state. I also want to break 11 minutes in the 3,200-meter run in track.

Who is your school's biggest rival, and why? Lakeville South for girls' cross-country because their team is ranked one higher than us.

What is your most memorable moment as a high school athlete so far? Winning the 1,600- and 3,200-meter runs in the True Team sections for track in 2011.

What is your favorite meal before a meet? Peanut butter bagel with a banana.

When you have time off during vacation, what do you like to do? I like to hang out with my friends and family. I also like to bake.

Who is your favorite college or pro sports team and why? The Minnesota Lynx because of their successful season, teamwork and dedication to be the best.

In 10 years, I hope I'm ... completing college to become a doctor and continuing to run.

What is the best sports advice you ever received? My dad always says to me before a race "Do your best, try hard and have fun."