Blake competes recently at the Greg DeNike Classic in CA. (Photo by Pam Fisher)
MileSplit - How is your fitness as you begin the 2013 season. What excites you most about the coming year of HS XC?
Blake - My fitness is very strong right now. Even after a late start to my summer training I feel really strong right now.
MileSplit - After a very successful spring, which saw you run 8:48 for 3200m and 3:44 for 1500m, what are your plans for this season?
Blake - This track season I would like to take a shot at a sub 4:00 minute mile. I think I have a legitimate shot with my coaching and previous performances. I also want to defend my state titles and improve all my PB's.
MileSplit - When & how did you get started in cross country?
Blake - I got started in cross country my freshman year. I did it because my sister did and I enjoyed running.
MileSplit - Person/people most influential to your success in cross country and why?
Blake - The most influential people would be my parents, my coach Josh Lewis, and all the teammates I have had throughout the years. These people have pushed me to be the best I can be and have been incredibly supportive.
MileSplit - Who has influenced you the most so far in your life and what they mean to you and your success?
Blake - My parents have been the most influential people in my life. They have done an amazing job raising me and I am very thankful. They do whatever they can to make sure I can train at a high level.
MileSplit - What are the keys to your successful cross country training program?
Blake - There's nothing special its all the hard work we put in. Also our coaches are very dedicated and knowledgeable.
MileSplit - What are the keys to your team's unity and how you train to reach your goals?
Blake - We always tend to form a special bond which keeps us united and always competing for each other.
MileSplit - Your favorite past performance in a cross country race and why?
Blake - Since I didn't have much of an XC season last year due to my IT band my favorite memory is winning the Central Section team title. Because our team worked extremely hard.
MileSplit - Who are the cross country competitors you most enjoy competing against and why?
Blake - I love competition so I wouldn't say I like competing against someone more than someone else.
MileSplit - What is your greatest non-running experience in cross country so far and why?
Blake - My greatest experience would have to be spending time with all the guys because they became some of my best friends.
MileSplit - What are your goals for the 2013 cross country season?
Blake - This cross season I want to win the CA state meet and Foot Locker Nationals along with running fast through the season.
MileSplit - Do you have any long-term goals in running?
Blake - My long term running goals would be to run professionally and compete in the Olympics.
MileSplit - What was your favorite performance from the 2013 World Champs?
Blake - Matt Centrowitz' silver medal would have to be my favorite performance.
The Fun Run
What music do you rock while working out…
Blake - I listen to a lot of rap so rap I guess.
Do you like to run in the mud or the grass…
Blake - Grass.
Do you hang out on Facebook or Twitter...
Blake - TWITTER! Follow me @Blake_Haney
Do you like going out or chilling at home...
Blake - I like a mixture of going out and staying home.
What gear is your favorite while running...
Blake - Nike is by far my favorite gear.
