A little less than a year ago, freshman Ashley Spencer from Illinois won her first national title in the Women’s 400-meter on her birthday.

Today, hours before her birthday, Spencer lined up on the blocks and sped around Hayward field to defend her title. As a freshman, Spencer put herself into a category with Sanya Richards, being the first freshman to win a 400-meter national title since Richards did it in 2003.

Besting favorites Shaunae Miller and Regina George, Spencer won her second consecutive title in the event.

“There is absolutely nothing easy about it,” Spencer said. “I’m running against the best girls in the country, probably the world, they’re very talented. I’m just honored to be here and to represent Illinois the best that I can.”

The Indiana native has a simple strategy when running the race, not just giving it her all, but running for her life.

“I just try not to think about anyone else and just run for my life and finish the best I could and then see the results on the board,” Spencer said.

Even with setting a PR, she wanted to t get under the allusive 50 second mark.

“I wanted to go under 50 so bad, but it can wait I guess,” Spencer laughed. “I’m just so close it hurts.”