PTXC Preseason Q&A: Rebecca Snyder of Oley Valley


Oley Valley's Rebecca Snyder had a breakout junior year. On the track last spring, she proved many times that she was fully capable of tripling events and shaving time off her PRs. At states, she not only medaled in both the AA 1600 meters and 3200 meters; she set two personal best times at the meet. We agree with Oley Valley head coach Steven Boyer when he says, "She is a remarkable athlete."

Last year in cross country, she ran 18:44 to take 3rd in the District 3 AA championships. A week later, at the 2016 XC State Championships, Snyder dropped 44 seconds off her previous time on the Hershey course, landing her third overall in AA.

Now a senior, Snyder will be someone to watch out for at the district and state level this fall. PennTrackXC got a chance to catch up with Snyder to talk about her upcoming cross country season.

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PennTrackXC: You had a lot of success over many different distances this past year. (Triple events at many meets!) Which distance/mid distance race do you prefer most? ​5Ks? 1600? 3200?

Rebecca Snyder: ​My answer tends to change with the seasons. During the fall I prefer to race 5Ks, but when spring rolls around I find myself loving track and favor the 1600m. The 1600m comes out on top as my favorite during track season because it was lower stress race for me that I could always have fun in.


PTXC: How has your summer training been going thus far? Do you train alone or with a group?

RS: Summer training has been great for rediscovering my love for running... and new trails... and running partners! Summer is always a good building time for me and I love when I get to run with my teammates or get a bike ride in with my sister. I usually find running with others to be super enjoyable, but quiet runs on my own definitely have their place.

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PTXC:Everyone across the state obviously makes goals for the post season. Individually or as a team, what are some of the dual meets or invites you are looking forward to or have goals for this season?

RS: This season, I'm looking forward to the Northampton Invite. Last year I was sidelined by a rolled ankle and the rest of the team really enjoyed this course, so I'm excited to race with my team there this year. Some big races on my radar are of course Districts and States and with such great competition, I am expecting tough races that are sure to be exciting to watch.



​PTXC: Last year, you were third overall at the AA XC state championship against an extremely talented field of ladies. What are some goals you have for yourself for your senior year of cross?

RS: I don't want to stress too much about place this year, I'm more focused on being competitive with the top runners in the state and putting forth my best efforts in each race. My overall goal is to really enjoy every practice, race, and team experience in my last high school cross country season.