Zach Kruse
Deer Lakes
Senior
Events: 800m & 1600m
Favorite Invitational: Butler invitational
College Fall 2024 Monmouth University
How did you first become involved in track and field?
After falling out of love with other sports due to a perceived lack of potential, my parents suggested I try running. Despite dreading the initial practices, I soon fell in love with the sport.
What is your favorite event to compete in, and why?
My favorite event is the 800m. It’s such a thrilling distance to race, requiring both speed and endurance. Deer Lakes has a rich history in the 800m, which makes competing in it even more meaningful.
Who has been your biggest influence or inspiration in Track & Field?
Carson McCoy, Aidan Herman , and JP Byrnes have all played significant roles in helping me reach where I am today. From Carson providing the workouts, to enduring them alongside JP and Herman, they are the reason I have developed a love for this sport.
What are your goals this season?
My goals are to improve upon my personal bests, contend at major invites, and hopefully be in contention for the WPIAL and State 800m titles.
What is your favorite track and field memory from your high school career so far?
Running my first fresh 800 of the season at the Northern Area Last Chance Meet. I did it for fun without setting any expectations and broke two minutes for the first time by three seconds, shocking myself with the performance. It was made even more special by the support of all my friends who were there.
How has being a part of a track and field team influenced your overall high school experience?
In my freshman year, the upperclassmen took me under their wing and motivated me to run with them. Their humor and ability to make running enjoyable brought me back, practice after practice. I have made lifelong friends through track and field.
How do you approach mental preparation before a race, and do you have any pre-race rituals?
Mentally, I tell myself there’s no pressure. Just have fun with the opportunity, and the results will follow. Before every race at the start line, I pray/give thanks for the blessing of the opportunity to race and compete.
What advice would you give to younger athletes who are just starting their journey in track and field?
Be disciplined within the sport. Don’t skip runs or workouts because you will eventually regret it. Your four years of high school running go by very fast; don’t take any moment with your team for granted.
Can you discuss the role of sports psychology in your training, and how do you work on the mental aspects of your performance?
The mental aspect of running has always been a challenge for me, from worrying about competitors to completing the next rep of a workout. I’ve learned to just go out there and race, focusing on my own performance rather than worrying about others. You’re in control of your own race.
Deer Lakes’ Zach Kruse looks to carry the torch of middle-distance success this season. In 2023, Zach achieved an incredible feat by winning a medal at the PIAA Championships in the 800-meter run from the first heat, placing 7th overall. Building on that momentum, he undoubtedly has the ability to climb several places this season. Already mentally tough and driven to succeed, I foresee Zach having a successful senior year in 2024, running consistently in the 1:55-1:56 range.
About X Shadyside
Since 1994, X Shadyside Health & Fitness has been the premiere all-inclusive fitness facility in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Shadyside neighborhood. As a family-owned boutique gym, we’re able to offer a welcoming, supportive community that large chain gyms cannot. Whether you’re just beginning your fitness journey or an avid fitness lover, we’re excited to have you train with us.
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