Dreher senior distance runner Eli Roth talks to MileSplit SC about his senior season the week of state qualifiers and his improvement this season.
How do you look at the season and what you achieved heading into qualifier weekend?
I'm really excited for state. I've really been enjoying this final season and am hoping to place well in both the qualifier and state races. Also looking forward to racing in some cooler weather.
What does it mean to be ranked in the top 10 for the class of 2024 and top 20 overall in South Carolina cross country?
It's really exciting, and an honor. If you would have shown me this statistic last year, it would be hard for me to believe.
You broke 16 minutes twice this season and had a 2022 season best of 17:27, what and when was involved to your improvement from the last season?
I would say that running track last year has helped me a lot with this cross country season. My race strategy and fitness levels have improved, and I think this is what has helped me make that jump.
How would you rate your overall season so far?
I would say it's gone really well so far. I had a slower cross country season last year and was hoping to see some improvement this year, and I'd say I've achieved that goal.
How and when did you get involved in running?
I first joined cross country when I was in seventh grade. I've always played soccer growing up, and planned on doing the cross country/soccer combo through high school until I decided to make the switch to track last spring.
How was summer training?
Summer training went well. I was running mainly off of the mileage plan that Coach Supplee sends each of us. This was the most mileage I've ever logged in a summer, and I think it's helped improve my 5K time this fall.
What were your key races this year?
I would definitely have to say Starlight Run, since that's where I first went sub 16 and placed second in the checker race. I ran slower at coaches classic but I was very happy with how I ran and where I placed. I would also say that winning region was another great race for me.
"I am extremely grateful to everyone that has been with me these last few years. My family, who are always my supporters, Coach (Tim) Supplee, who never hesitates to give me advice or running-wisdom, and all my teammates, friends and other coaches who have encouraged me." - Eli Roth
What do you hope the team will achieve during championship season?
We won state in both cross and track last year, but we lost our top four guys who all graduated. We have a much younger team this year, but still have a bunch of guys who can run as a group and help us score well. I think on a good day we can crack the top five at state.
What is your kind of race strategy you prefer?
This is definitely something I've been figuring out this year. When I was still playing soccer, I would just run cross country races to get through them. After having some more race experience coming off this last track season, I've approached cross country races with more of an eye on strategy. I've enjoyed getting out quick and watching what other people decide to do, and then trying to make a move if the pace changes.
How do you adapt if it changes?
It depends on the day, but I like to think I'm reactive when it comes to a pace change in a race. If the race goes out slower and I'm feeling good, I'm learning that sometimes it's better to be patient and see what moves are made. This is something I've learned through trial and error. I've rushed to take the lead in multiple races this year, and ended up in second. It's cross country, and anything can happen on any given day or course-which is why I think patience is so important.
What are your plans after high school?
I plan on going to college. Running at the collegiate level is something I'm still figuring out, as it's a possibility that is still new for me, however it's something I hope to pursue.
What other hobbies do you have?
I play the piano and trumpet.
What would you like to say to those that support you?
I am extre
I am extremely grateful to everyone that has been with me these last few years. My family, who are always my supporters, Coach (Tim) Supplee, who never hesitates to give me advice or running-wisdom, and all my teammates, friends and other coaches who have encouraged me.
Do you prefer track or cross country more? Why?
Although I've been running xc for longer, I really enjoy track. I prefer the quicker races like the 800 or 1600, and I like being able to run at night under the lights. Cross country will always be special to me, but if I had to choose I think I'd take track.
Favorite course in S.C.?
Eye Opener. It's a tough course, but I think by far the most scenic and has a great atmosphere. Obviously there are faster courses, but I love the feeling of charging down that opening straight next to 400 other people.
