Alumni Focus: Zach Haire

As far as training, consistency as always been key for me. Whether it be for a postseason race or even just daily workouts, my routine is very similar day in and day out. Since I started running cross country freshman year of HS, all the miles and training have compounded with PRs dropping every season. I started around 20-25 miles a week that first year and have slowly upped it every year where now I sit around 65-70 miles. It has been important to never rush anything training-wise while staying healthy and injury free.I have always just trusted my coaches and body which usually has me peaking at the right time.

With the cancellation of outdoor track, I am excited to get back to racing in the fall and keep going for new PRs. Some lofty goals for XC next fall are top 5 at the MIAC XC Championships, break 25 minutes in the 8k, and qualify for the National Championships as a team again. In track, I am looking to break 8:30 in the 3k, 14:45 in the 5k, and 31 minutes in the 10k. Hopefully I can qualify for nationals in one of those events. Overall, make the most of our last year in the MIAC while staying healthy and happy.

I was looking forward to keeping the momentum going from indoor track right into outdoor track, so it has been a tough mental adjustment going back to a base training phase. Currently, I have been building up mileage since mid-March with two fartleks or longer tempos per week. I am just focusing on building a big base and staying healthy before XC next fall. The biggest struggle being home has been training alone and sticking to a schedule. I have tried to stay motivated and keep doing the little things, but it becomes much tougher when you are at it alone. I plan on taking a week break first week of May and then transition into a slow build of summer mileage. Down the road, I am excited to go on weekly runs with some friends in nearby cities.

First off, I would encourage anyone is unsure whether they want to run in college to do it. I was going back and forth during Junior and Senior year, but I clearly know now that deciding to run at UST was one of the best decisions of my life. Primarily my concerns were regarding balancing athletics with my academics, social life, and faith; however, running has only enhanced those other aspects. Those teammates you spend each day with will become your best friends and the people you can count on down the road. Academically (just like in high school), running year-round will help you stay on a schedule and motivate you to stay on top of things. Also, never be afraid to reach out to your coaches, professors, or friends if you feel like you are falling behind in your classes. They are there to help you!