2k times/lightweight

Question
I'm a 15 year old sophomore in high school, and I just did a 7:58 2k. I weigh 136 pounds and am 5'6" and I was wondering whether I should try to go lightweight. Also, is my 2k time good for someone my age? what should I be aiming for by the time I am a senior?

Answer
Hi Sarah: First off, 7:58 would be a good time if you were a boy.  It's an outstanding time for a female.  Per the Concept II web site, you are in the 90th percentile for 13-18 year old female lightweights.  See for yourself:

http://www.concept2.com/sranking03/get_wrankings.asp

I prefer to not give advice on decisions to become a lightweight or heavyweight.  I'd regret encouraging someone to go lightweight and they develop an eating disorder.  All I'll say is that the lightweight cut-off for women is 135 lbs and you are already 136.  If you are still growing, then your body is telling you that you are a heavyweight.  With a time as good as yours, you want to be on the fastest boat possible.

Regards/AP