Name: Madelyn Gomez (Heathwood Hall)
How was your summer training?
My summer training was efficient. At the beginning of the summer, I continued training for track since I had the opportunity to attend Nike Nationals in Eugene, Oregon. Once that was finished, I began XC training alongside my team at Heathwood Hall and we worked on building our mileage, becoming more acclimated to the heat, and getting stronger and faster.
"I see it as a great start to the season, and am excited to see what I can accomplish personally this XC season along with what my team and I can accomplish." - Madelyn Gomez
Did you attend a running camp?
I attended the Furman running camp with one of my teammates and had the pleasure of being trained by the coaches and runners of the XC team there, along with Gabbi Jennings. The running community at Furman was very outgoing and welcoming and I was able to connect with various runners from all over the state as well as the country which I found to be a very fun experience.
How do you look at having one of the top times in the state (editor's note: the time was the top time at the time of the interview, current top four)?
I see it as a great start to the season, and am excited to see what I can accomplish personally this XC season along with what my team and I can accomplish.
What are your season goals?
Ideally, my personal goal for this season would be to break 18 minutes in the 5K and be able to get my time down to the mid 17s. For my team, I am hopeful that we can win the SCISA state championship and believe that with enough work, this goal is achievable. I also want to continue to get stronger and faster, while also having fun.
What meets are you focusing on this year?
I am focusing on both the region and SCISA State Championship meets in the team aspect because I feel that we have a big shot at winning both, and individually I am focussing on Foot Locker and Nike Cross Nationals. I am also focusing on the SCISA State Championship meet individually because along with the goal of winning the meet as a team, I would also like to try and push to win individually as well. I am excited for all of my meets this year and eager to have tough competition in order to be able to push myself harder.
