Interview with S.C.'s Top Runner Siobhan Joyce

How do you look at leading South Carolina girls cross country in the rankings?
It feels really good, I'm super excited. The season is still pretty young, and I'm excited to see what everyone else is going to do this season!

How would you rate your overall season so far?
Really good. I'm super blessed to have been able to race some amazing girls in South Carolina, and am excited to see what the rest of the season holds!

How and when did you get involved in running?
I started running last September, when my twin sister (Sinead Joyce) joined cross country. Our team didn't have enough girls to place at the meets, so they were trying to recruit as many girls as possible.

How was summer training?
Summer training was super fun! It definitely taught me to love running, and it was super exciting to build for this season!

What kind of mileage did you have this summer?
For the first half of the summer mostly just slower longer miles to build up a good base, and to increase my endurance. Then the second half a bit more resistance training. 

Three easy runs, two workouts and one long run. 

How will training change all season?
Mostly just incorporating more speed work, and as the season comes to an end, I will begin to taper.

What are your key races this year?
Obviously states, and the meets around championship season; however, Warrior and Low Country invitationals are probably the two biggest races our team is going to this season, so I am excited for those!

What goals do you have this season?
Probably to win 2A state championships!

How do you see yourself achieving them?
Just to stay consistent, make sure I'm fueling with good and enough food, and to enjoy what I'm doing!

What motivates you?
Probably my family, my friends and my goals for the future.

What do you hope the team will achieve this season?
I hope we can get top three at states, and all just become closer as teammates!

What do you think of South Carolina cross country as a whole?
I think it is filled with some really fast girls! It is super exciting to see everyone's successes, as well as how we can push each other!

What is your kind of race strategy?
I used to fly and die, but now I just try to go out fast, yet not die on the first mile. Then just hang in for the rest of the race, and really try to push when things start to hurt.

How do you adapt if it changes?
I just go with the flow during races, depending on whatever feels right for that race!

What are your plans after high school?
I really want to run D1, so wherever that means, I know God has a plan for me!

Do you see yourself coaching in the future?
Maybe. I don't know too much about running at the moment, but as I continue to run and learn more, I could maybe use it as a side hustle when I grow up.

What other hobbies do you have?
I love to hangout with my friends and family. I love Spikeball, and going to the beach! Rollerblading is pretty fun as well.

If you could meet one person who would it be and why?
Probably Adele because she's super cool, and my family grew up listening to her.

Do you have any other family members that run?
Yes, my twin! She actually got me into running, and we just started training my mom for the Freaky Friday run, at Blue Sky Endurance!

What would you like to say to those that support you?
Thank you so much, and I appreciate you guys more than you know!

Do you prefer track or cross country more? Why?
Probably cross country. I really like getting to run in new places because it keeps things interesting!

Favorite course in S.C.? Why?
Unpopular opinion, I kind of liked Sandhills, but I would say maybe the Philip Simmons course.

What else would you like to do in life if you had the chance?
Probably become a mom and have a family!