Two-thirds through January, indoor track season has commenced, we’ve hit our next national holiday, and the blog vacation is officially over.
I’m in Arizona for the month with Julie. We’re living it up, and also missing our larger crew in New Jersey. (Lots of reminiscing about 2012 months together in Clinton.)
But time hasn’t stood still in our absence. Last weekend was the first race for some of our athletes – with Heather Wilson, Nicol Traynor, and Latavia Thomas running openers at the armory. And there is more to come this Saturday. We have a slew of runners in the New Balance Invite: Liam Boylan-Pett, Mike Rutt, Christian Gonzalez, and Travis Mahoney for the men, Ashley Higginson, Renee Tomlin, Heather, and Nicol for women.
Indoors is a great time of year. While not the focus of our training, it’s a fun feeling to get back into the spirit and mindset of racing. Plus, there is nothing quite like the noise of the crowd amplified by an indoor facility. Or maybe i’m just itching for a competition after good, long months of training. What’s everyone else thinking? Here are some thoughts from my teammates, looking forward to the indoor track meets:
Mike Rutt is trying his hand at a few different distances that he hasn’t really raced since college. “They will be a great way to test my fitness as I set my focus on the outdoor season.”
Renee Tomlin must be ready to roll… woman’s even looking forward to track hack. “There’s nothing quite like that burning sensation and cough that are souvenirs after your first indoor race of the year.” She also mentions decisive race tactics as a point of focus for these initial competitions, while staying relaxed and composed. The gear shifts will help with her prep for the mile and outdoor 1500.
Christian Thompson hasn’t raced a mile at sea level since freshmen year… of high school. Between that on 2/2, and the 3k a week later, there are certainly PRs in the near future. Plus, this guy is not bounded by the 8-lane deal. He is “most excited for the NYC Half Marathon, March 17th. It will be awesome racing in front of so many people.” And awesome to watch. Just don’t only turn left!
Ashley Higginson looks to have fun and be competitive. The first ever elite steeplechase at the Armory this weekend seems like it will be a lot of both!
Latavia Thomas is fresh off a blazing 500 at the season opener. She says, “this season will be great. I will be a serious factor, and I’m excited about that.” Definitely not overlooking that 53 first 400. Woah.
Heather Wilson has always had a thing for the indoor season. And she adds, “the excitement for this indoor season is just as high as previous years, but with an added incentive to establish myself as a post-collegiate runner.” She is focusing on getting back into mental and physical racing form, while exploring and getting more comfortable with the mile. She fully anticipates some fast times, and after seeing her blaze in practice, so do we.
Soo, it’s not only me. After a great fall and early winter of base work, people are ready for some fun competition. The focus is outdoors, but it’s never too early for a little NJ flair.