Since 1897, LSU has consistently pumped out some of the best runners in the world. Most people can recall Xavier Carter, the seven-time NCAA Champion and 10-time All-American.
Some might recall Ronetta Smith, Derrick Brew and Muna Lee, who were all medalists at the 2005 World Championships. All of them were well know before they came to college.
But when Rachael Graham came to LSU, assistant head coach Mark Elliott had no idea that the walk-on would become the fastest Lady Tiger during cross country's 2006 season.
When Graham was a sophomore she was encouraged to try out for cross country. With only the experience of running road races around town, she was determined to prove to herself and the coaches that she had what it took to be successful.
"I went to coach Elliott after the 2004 cross country season and asked him for an opportunity to run," said Graham. "I had nothing to give him, only my word. I knew that this was my only shot."
Graham had only one chance to prove to the coaches that she was just as talented and dedicated as the other girls on the team.
"I knew I had to buckle down. I told coach Elliott that if I couldn't cut it, he wouldn't have to ask me to leave, I would leave on my own," said Graham.
Graham walked-on after her sophomore year. She began a difficult workout regimen that consisted of weight training and long endurance runs. Graham had to change everything from her diet to her sleeping habits.
"I wanted to see how much training I could endure before I competed. I knew if I could finish the workout coach Elliott gave me for summer conditioning, I might have a chance," said Graham.
Graham had not been on the track long before she won the 5K at the season-opening Purple Tiger Invitational during the 2005 indoor season.
"I had just come out for the team, so I had to prove myself. It was a really good experience for me. My dad saw me win for the first time," said Graham.
In the following cross country season, Graham finished as LSU's No. 2 runner in two of the Lady Tigers' five races. She followed that with personal bests in both the 3K (10:40.11) and 5K (18.19.78) during the 2006 indoor track season.
This year Graham has been LSU's top finisher in three of the Lady Tigers' five cross country meets. She has posted a pair of top-10 finishes as well as the fastest 6K time by a Lady Tiger this season.
"It's my last season to compete. If I don't do it now it will just never happen," explained Graham. "I'm plugging away trying to win, because I know I won't have this opportunity again."
Graham, a native of Greenwell Springs, La., was honored as SEC Women's Cross Country Runner of the Week after helping the Lady Tigers to victory at the LSU Tiger Cross Country Festival. She won the women's 6K race in 22:50.84.
"I didn't expect the honor because a lot of great runners have been named that previously," said Graham. "It was also a reassurance that I must be doing something right, so it has pushed me to keep going, do well and get better."
Not only has she gotten better, she has matured and improved when facing other competition. This is one major reason for the success she has already experienced.
"This year I've learned that I don't run against members of my team," said Graham. "We run together, so we can improve together and we can push each other along."
Graham has been pushed by fellow teammate Megan Broussard who helped Graham improve her times in such events as the Chili Pepper Festival, where Graham finished with the time of 22:10.7 and Broussard clocked in only 17 seconds after her teammate.
"I want to be the girl who is running with the best because she has worked hard and should be running with them," said Graham. "I don't want to be the girl who just lucked out."
Graham has certainly not just "lucked out" this season as she continues to train hard and pay more attention to her body.
"If I'm tired, I'll take a day off; or if I'm hurting I'll cross-train. This has definitely lengthened the season for me," said Graham.
This season is not only important to Graham because it marks the final year of her eligibility, but also for LSU, which is hosting the 2006 SEC Championships.
Last year, Graham turned in a time of 22:26.05 at the conference meet, but it was not enough to take home the title.
"I'm really excited that we are hosting the championship. I know every little hole, every little root, every possible alteration of the course," said Graham. "It's always easier to run on your home track, because you are mentally prepared better than others. You are familiar with the course."
Graham will compete at the SEC Championship this Saturday at Highland Road Park and her goal is to qualify for a regional and then the NCAA Championships.
"It would be amazing to go to nationals, because that's the top runners and it would be a great opportunity," she said.