Serre Smith is a 9 year old girl from Rapid City that loves running. She placed 2nd last year in the Trail Series in the women’s 29 and under division as an 8 year old. To our knowledge that is the youngest person to place in the Trail Series. Her mom and running partner, Melissa, is proud of Serre’s drive and spirit. This month’s spotlight is on the little blonde girl that has become a regular at local trail races. We sat down with Serre (pronounced like Mary but with and S) recently for an interview.
Q: How long have you been running and how did you get started?
A: I’ve been running since I was 5. My first race was the Run for the Rangers in Hill City. My mom thought that I would ride in the jogging stroller, but I ended up running the whole race. My mom has also been running for a long time so that’s how I became interested.
Q: What are some of your proudest running accomplishments?
A: When I finished the 8.5 mile Trail Championship Run in 2018, which was my longest run. This year I hope to finish a 10 mile run. Also, last year, I got 2nd place in the Trail Series in women’s 29 and under. My mom was the best pack mule ever.
Q: What are some of your best running memories?
A: When I crewed and paced my mom during her 100 mile run at the Black Hills 100 last year. My grandpa and I stayed up almost all night to help her.
Q: Tell us a little trivia about your running.
A: Sometimes when I’m frustrated, tired or bored while running I skip or do cartwheels to cheer up and entertain myself.
Q: What advice do you have for other kids your age?
A: Use running as leverage with your parents. Tell them that you’ll run a 5k if they’ll buy thing you want. Me, I like stuffed unicorns. Also, my mom lets me say the word “sh*t”, hell and damn, but only during trail runs and mountain bike rides. That makes me feel better.
Q: What are your plans for the future?
A: Lots of possibilities. I could be the president, a photographer, and inventor or a cross-fit trainer. I would like to invent a hover-board that actually hovers. And I want to run a half marathon when I’m ten.