Senior spotlight is an attempt to let athletes tell as much of their own story as we can. We want to take a look into some of the things that make them tick. If you are a senior who is in the top 25 this fall and want to be featured, send an email to milesplitga@gmail.com
Here we've got Haydn Hermansen from North Gwinnett for a senior spotlight moment:
What is your PR in XC so far?
15:08.50
What are your college plans, if you have them figured out?
I'm currently in the recruiting process, so I have not made an official decision yet.
What's your most memorable race or race you're most proud of?
I'm most proud of my race at Cross Country State last year. I placed 7th in 6A after being seeded outside of the top ten.
What is your favorite meet in cross country season and why?
My favorite meet is probably the Gwinnett County Cross Country Championships because I know a lot of the guys that I race against there, and it always creates a great competitive atmosphere. The course is also difficult but fun, which makes the race even more interesting.
What has been your biggest challenge in high school or what has been the hardest obstacle to overcome?
My biggest challenge in high school is probably dealing with the stress of trying to balance running, AP classes, and a job. Sometimes I feel pretty overwhelmed from long, difficult practices, lots of homework, and trying to get to work on time, and it's been hard not to get stressed while managing all of that.
What is your daily/weekly mileage like?
I usually do 50-60 miles a week depending on if I am racing that week or not.
What do you think is the biggest part of training that has helped you achieve success?
I would say the biggest part of training that has helped me achieve success is always focusing on recovery. I always make sure to stretch, eat well, and get a lot of sleep to make sure my body is ready for the next workout or race. I will also take ice baths when I feel like I need to reset my legs.
What is your all time favorite workout?
My favorite workout is 300m repeats.
What is your least favorite or hardest workout?
Long tempo runs are my least favorite workouts.
Who do you have to thank for your success?
I have to thank my parents for bringing me to local 5k races in the park when I was younger because that is what really got me into running competitively. I also have to thank my coach, Coach Carter, for always helping me become the best runner I can be.
Who do you look up to the most in your event?
I don't really look up to anyone specific. I focus more on working hard and competing well.
What gets you pumped up for a workout or race?
I'll usually listen to music before races, but I'll also do some visualizing the days leading up to the race to get myself mentally prepared.
What is your favorite food and/or movie and/or TV show and/or song?
My favorite food is cookies and cream ice cream.
What will you miss the most about high school?
After high school I will definitely miss my teammates the most. I have essentially grown up with the guys on my team and created so many memories together.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell myself to not get discouraged when you have a bad race or things just aren't working out. The best thing you can do in that situation is just put your head down and keep working hard because hard work will always pay off eventually.
