Thomas Gaydos
Norwin
Junior
Favorite XC Course: Cal U

How did you get started in cross-country ?
I started running cross country in middle school because both of my siblings did it so I wanted to run.  I enjoyed running in middle school, so I decided to do it in high school.

What advice would you give to someone who is new to cross country running?
I would tell them that they are in control of how fast they run, and say that the harder they work, the faster they will be.

What is your favorite cross-country workout or training session?
My favorite workout is tempo miles because I like tempo pace because it is not hard, but it feels fast so it is a mental boost.

How do you mentally stay strong during the final stretch of a race?
I look for someone in front of me and then focus on trying to catch them.  Focusing on other runners in front of me makes it easier to stay positive and focused.

What strategies or techniques do you use to mentally prepare yourself before a race?
I plan the race in my head the day of the meet and then again while walking the course. 

Do you have any pre-race rituals or superstitions that you follow for good luck or to get in the right mindset?
The night before a race I always make myself a smoothie and then go to bed very early.  I have a pair of lucky socks that I wear every race, because the first time I raced with them on I PR’d, so I always race in them now.

Thomas enters his junior year, picking up where he left off during his sophomore season. He has broken the 17-minute barrier at three major invitationals in 2023, achieving a personal record of 16:27 at the Blue Devil Invitational. Thomas is determined and motivated to help the Norwin boys’ cross-country team qualify for the PIAA Championship this year. With his running ability and strong mindset, Thomas has the potential to be a top-15 finisher at the WPIAL finals this season.

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