Gabby Layne Plum

What has been the most memorable race of your career so far, and why does it stand out?
The most memorable race of my career would have to be when I competed at regionals in New Jersey at 13 years old (I’ve been running for a long time). I entered the 100m race as the underdog—many people saw me as a 200m runner rather than a sprinter for the 100m. I knew that if I wanted to win, I would have to push myself because every girl in my heat was extremely fast. In the end, I not only won but also set the regional record with a time of 12.74. This race stands out because it was the first time I competed without nerves—just pure confidence. I didn’t let the competition intimidate me or make me feel like I didn’t belong in that final. Holding the regional record was a major accomplishment, and it’s something I still cherish to this day.

How do you calm your nerves before stepping into the blocks for a race?
I used to struggle a lot with nerves. Even when I came into a race undefeated, my mind would be flooded with every possible thing that could go wrong. Recently, I’ve shifted my mindset. Instead of thinking, “Will I PR or do well today?” I tell myself, “I will PR and do well today.” Track is all mental—when you visualize success, you create it. I’ve also started taking a deep breath before stepping onto the line, and trust me, it makes a difference.

What keeps you coming back to the sport year after year?
I’ve been running for 11 years, and every season, I keep coming back because this sport is my life—it’s part of who I am. I live, breathe, and eat track and field. If I weren’t running, I honestly wouldn’t know what to do with myself. The drive to be better than I was the year before also fuels me. I know what I’m capable of, and with every season, I push myself to reach new levels. There’s always another goal, another record, another race to win, and that keeps me motivated.

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I’m excited to introduce a new feature called NixonTFXC Profiles. These profiles will include important information and statistics to help you promote yourself to other coaches in Track & Field/Cross Country. If you’re interested, you can contact me via Instagram, Twitter, or email at Karlon.nixon@gmail.com.

• One-time fee of $100 (2025 price), which covers your entire high school career and includes a NixonTFXC T-Shirt.
• Updates on the website to showcase your personal records and achievements.
• Monthly posts on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

This is recommended for Freshmen, Sophomores, and Juniors who are interested in pursuing Track & Field/Cross Country at the collegiate level.

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NixonTFXC.com expires on October 7, 2025.
The renewal cost is $515 for two years.
A small donation to NixonTFXC can help upgrade the site and extend the domain. Your contribution is greatly appreciated.

Subscribe to NixonTFXC

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