Earlier this year, Sammy won the Otago senior girls cross-country and was also part of a team which won the Milton and Kings crosso-country relays.
The modest 18 year-old says she was surprised to cross the finish line first in the gruelling long-distance events, but in hindsight, it was also a highlight of her running career and an inspiring experience.
"I thought if I can do this, I can do anything. It just goes to show what you can achieve if you put your mind to it."
Sammy says she seldom lets an opportunity slip through her fingers and since the day she could walk, she has been dashing from one opportunity to the next.
When the chance to go on an Outward Bound course came up, Sammy said it was a daunting prospect being away from the security of family for three weeks.
But it was something she had to do.
"I enjoy trying new things. I like the challenges they present and I grab them with both hands. I hate looking back and regretting not doing something."
Her passion for diversity has led Sammy to be a member of the school's senior A netball, volleyball and basketball teams as well as the school's choir and student council.
Achievements: NCEA Excellence in levels 1 and 2; Student Council (2008); School cross-country team (2004-08); senior A netball (2006-08), A basketball (2005-08), A volleyball (2006-07); Bayfield High School sports development programme; Madrigal Choir (2005-08); Peer support (2008); student exchange to Germany (2007-08).
Role model: No role model.
Hopes for the future: To study sciences at the University of Otago.