The Hunter River High School Year 12 student was well aware the carnival at Walka Water Works was her last chance to reach the summit of the state's school sporting system before she graduated.

"I have been going to regionals for four years and haven't made it to state yet," she said.

"This was my last year so I thought I have to go this time."

Henderson ran a top-six time in the girls 18 years and over category to qualify for the six-kilometre state championship race at Eastern Creek Raceway on July 23.

Henderson, also an avid orienteerer, said the personal challenge, more so than competition with others, fuelled her fixation with distance running.

"I love running, I always have, and I think that's because it's about you and how hard you can push yourself," she said.

"You don't need anything else, just you."

Interval, sprint and long distance training four times a week should see Henderson in competition form by July 23, but another top-six finish and a consequent place in the NSW All Schools team will require something special on debut.