5k 15:54 3200m 9:17 1600m 4:27
PennTrackXC - How is your summer training going? What kind of runs are you doing and what kind of mileage are you hitting?
My summer training has been going great, I have been healthy and injury free all summer. I won’t give an exact number of miles I've been running, but I have been consistently running really high mileage. My training has consisted of weekly long runs, tempo style runs, two-a-day runs, working on my form, lifting several days a week, and most importantly getting a good nap in every day.
PennTrackXC - What is the most valuable lesson you learned last season and how can it be used to improve your 2014 season?
The most valuable lesson I learned from last season was to relax and have fun while working hard. This lesson can be used to improve my 2014 season. By staying relaxed before races and having fun with my teammates and friends at practices and meets, it’ll make my season more enjoyable.
PennTrackXC - For what 2014 meets are you most excited?
The 2014 meets I am most excited for are PTXC and Spiked Shoe Invite because I have never run them before. I’m also looking forward to the PIAA State Championship Race, Foot Locker Regionals, and hopefully Foot Locker Nationals.
PennTrackXC - When and how did you get started in cross country?
I got stared in Cross Country in 7th grade and I have been hooked ever since. My dad always used to tell me about his days running cross country in high school and college, and when I heard about our school’s team, I had to give it a try.
PennTrackXC - Who has influenced you the most in your life and what have they meant to you and your success thus far in your career?
My family has influenced me the most in my life, and they are one of the biggest reasons for my success. They are all extremely supportive and keep me on track. My dad is always pushing me and has almost become a part time coach for me, waking up sometimes at 5 in the morning to help me with my workouts. Both of my grandparents come to almost every meet I run in to support me.
By far the biggest influence on my 2014 track season was my Grandfather. As I was injured during the last indoor season he kept me thinking positive, even telling me that I would win states in the 3200m in the spring and how he was looking forward to seeing me do that. Sadly he passed away in late February and that's what motivated me thought the outdoor track season and summer training.
PennTrackXC - What are your keys to success when it comes to your training program?
My keys to success when it comes to my training is consistently working hard and paying a lot of attention to my recovery. I focus on getting lots of sleep, stretching, rolling out with a foam roller, eating right, relaxing throughout the day, and taking lots of ice baths. I feel by paying attention to my recovery, it allows me to train harder and stay injury free.
PennTrackXC - What is your most memorable cross country performance thus far in your career?
My most memorable cross country performance thus far was medaling at Footlocker Regionals. That was one of the best races and it was great to run against some of the best boys in the Northeast.
PennTrackXC - What is your greatest non-running experience in cross country so far and why?
My greatest non-running experience in cross country so far was being in New York City for Footlocker Regionals with Dom Deluca and most of the Dallas girls’ team. Having great friends in this sport makes it a lot easier to stay relaxed by motivating each other and having fun.
PennTrackXC - What are your goals for the 2014 cross country season?
My goals for the 2014 Cross Country season are to stay healthy, smash a few PR's, and be successful at the state and national levels.
What is your...
Favorite social media hangout: a tie between Instagram and twitter, give me a follow at @d_hock11 for Instagram and @hockenburydom on Twitter
Pre-race ritual/superstition: To do a little fist bump with my brother and dad. It’s a little weird, but then our team puts our hands in and we yell ‘defense!’ After counting to 3
Favorite cheat food: Swedish Fish. You can see me eating them after every race.
Favorite pro athlete? Galen Rupp
Must-have running accessory? Anti-chaffing gel. It comes in handy on those long runs.
Long run jam: Wu Tang Radio on Pandora.
Favorite workout? An 18 mile long run.
