Meredith Rhodes
Upper St. Clair
Junior
Favorite XC Course: Cal-U

How did you get started in cross-country ?
I first started running when I was 8 with Pacers Track Club as a part of USATF. After my dad got me into the sport I continued through middle school and now high school.

What do you enjoy most about cross-country?
Definitely the team aspect. Going on a long run, or out to breakfast after a morning practice is one of my favorite things about this sport. Having a close team just makes training and racing so much more fun!

Do you have a favorite cross-country memory or race?
One of my favorite moments last season was qualifying for the state championship meet. It was something that has always been my goal and getting to experience that feeling as a sophomore was really special.

What advice would you give to someone who is new to cross country running?
Honestly just run. Don’t worry about times or your pace on easy runs, or what others around you are doing. If you love the sport and embrace the pain when it comes the times will take care of themselves.

What is your favorite cross-country workout or training session?
I love doing track workouts over the summer and one of my favorites that I do with my sister is 20x200s. It’s definitely not a easy run but it’s honestly so fun to be able to push each other.

How has cross-country running impacted your life outside the sport?
Running has taught me so many lessons but has also connected me with some of my best friends. Being able to share the sport with them has made such a strong bond and given us so much support.

How do you mentally stay strong during the final stretch of a race?
I just try to focus on the finish and remind myself that if I can feel pain then I can go to another gear and finish even stronger.

How do you handle race-day nerves and anxiety? Do you have any pre-race rituals or techniques to help you stay calm and focused?
I’ve always been someone who gets really nervous before a race but I try to do the same thing and not change my routine. Relying on what I know helps me feel like I will race the way I know how to as well.

Meredith Rhodes of Upper St. Clair emerges as a standout contender in the girls AAA field for 2023. As a junior, she’s poised to leave her mark and shine brightly throughout the upcoming season. Notably, Meredith secured a WPIAL medal and qualified for the PIAA championships last year, showcasing her remarkable potential. Her achievements from the previous year include surpassing the 20-minute barrier in an impressive 4 out of 6 invitationals she participated in during the 2022 season. Building upon her dedication and hard work, Meredith devoted her summer to rigorous training, aiming to enhance her performance for the upcoming fall season and shatter the 19-minute milestone. With an unwavering positive outlook, a strong work ethic, and an unrelenting drive to excel even when faced with challenges, Meredith possesses the ability to join the 18-minute 5k club this season. Keep a close watch on Meredith Rhodes as she embarks on this exciting journey to achieve remarkable success in 2023.

Donate to NixonTFXC.com
https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/8WDJjoyOlW