Cross-country runner Micah Hayman recently qualified for the UIL State 3A Cross-country meet. This was the sophomore’s first time competing at this level. She placed 78th out of 152 athletes, and there was only a one-minute difference between 78th place and the 10th place runner.
With cross-country being a challenging sport, Hayman still pushes through even on the days she does not feel like running.
“I just get up and run anyway and suck up the pain,” Hayman said. “While I’m running, I pray to God to get my mind off of it.”
Equipment used to run these elaborate races can be very important. If the objects are not up to par, or are bad quality, that can negatively affect the runner. Most runners turn to running shoes or watches as their primary equipment, but Hayman’s list is a little different.
“My water bottle is my number one piece of equipment,” Hayman said. “Water is very important for my body and makes me feel good.”
Her shoe of choice is the Brooks brand.
“Brooks are my favorite running shoes, she said, “because they are not super arched or lifted like most other shoes.”
What one eats is an important factor in quality running. Eating a healthy, nutritious diet benefits the runner, and eating a great amount of junk and fast food is harmful.
“I don’t have to diet,” Hayman said, “but I choose to be gluten-free because it will upset my stomach if I don’t.”
Though cross-country season is over and Hayman has downtime, she has plans to be diligent and improve.
“I plan on increasing mileage and hopefully cutting off more time,” she said.