First Year Feature: Ruby Harris

The transition from high school to university athletics is signifigant. We're highlighting first year athletes from all varsity teams this season who are on the path to achieving success here at Dalhousie University. 

This week, we would like to introduce Ruby Harris, a member of the track and field team. Hailing from Mahone Bay, N.S., Ruby is studying Kinesiology.

How did you start or get into track and field? 

I started running through a program called The Youth Running Series when I was 8. Then, in grade 6, I joined my school's track team where I mainly ran distance events. It wasn't until grade 9 that I fell in love with sprinting.  

Did you play any other sports growing up? 

I was involved in many sports growing up. My main sport was soccer which I started playing at 5 years old. Over the years, I have participated in cross country, basketball, rugby and badminton.  

Who is somebody in the track and field community you admired growing up and why? 

Growing up, someone that I admired in the track and field community was Jenna Martin. As a Canadian 400m runner who competed at the 2012 Olympics, she showed that athletes from small provinces can still compete on the world stage. I have always looked up to her as she is from the same county as I am, and she also runs the same event as I do. Her journey inspired me to believe in my own potential and that where you come from does not limit how successful you are. 

What is the most memorable moment in your career so far? What made you choose Dalhousie University? 

One of my most memorable moments of my track career was at my high school regional track meet in senior year where I broke the regional record in the 400m, which was previously held by Jenna Martin. 

What made you choose Dalhousie University? 

Living close to Dalhousie University made it a strong option when I was applying to schools, but what truly stood out to me was how welcoming the track team was. On my visit, I felt supported and the track environment had everything I was looking for. When touring the campus, I saw how beautiful it was, and the great facilities Dal has to offer. Dalhousie has a strong Kinesiology program as it falls under a Bachelor of Science which aligns with my academic goals. In addition to the quality of coaching as well as the continued success of the track and field program, I knew Dalhousie was the right choice for me.  

Did any of your family members attend Dalhousie University? How has the transition from high school sports to university sports been for you so far? 

My brother currently attends Dalhousie University where he is completing a degree in engineering. 

How has the transition from high school sports to university sports been for you so far? 

The transition into university sports has been good so far. I am used to the high volume of training so coming to Dal wasn't a big change. The biggest adjustment I've faced has been training with a team. In high school, I wasn't part of a track club and did most of my training independently. Overall, this transition has been very positive as I prefer to train with my teammates. 

How do you balance academics and sports? 

I balance academics and sports by staying organized and managing my time effectively. I keep track of all deadlines and plan my schedule around both training and classes which helps me stay on top of my assignments while making sure I get in all my trinaing sessions. This allows me to maintain consistency in both my academics and athletics.  

What are some of your interests outside of sports?  

Outside of track enjoy hiking and going to the beach. 

Any pre-event superstitions/routines? 

Before any track meet, I always listen to the same playlist and go through my warm up in the same order. 

Any hidden talents?  

I am amazing at Just Dance 2016. 

Favorite food? 

Pasta. 

Favorite movie? 
10 Things I Hate About You. 

Favorite warm-up song or current favorite song?  
"Breakin' Dishes" by Rihanna. 

Favorite professional athlete or team? 

Keely Hodgkinson - Great Britain 800m runner. 

If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be? 
New Zealand.