MaineTrackXC 2014 XC Watchlist

Sep 14, 2014

<p> Each week this XC season we will have our "Watchlist" of the top 15 individuals for both boys & girls. Additionally we will have interviews with any new athletes that break into the top 15.</p>

XC Watchlist: Luke Laverdiere - Yarmouth HS

Athlete Name: Luke Laverdiere

School: Yarmouth HS

Year of Graduation: 2018

2013 State Meet Finish: DNC

Tell us how your summer training went?

My summer training went very well this year. I went to Acadian Running Camp in July which was amazing. Throughout the majority of the summer I had more of a track-focused training program because I was training to run the 3,000m at the USATF Youth Nationals.

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

I plan on trying to break the Belfast Invitational Freshmen record, to place in the top 3 at Class B states, and to run under 16:20 for the 5k at some point throughout the season.

What is your favorite course to run in Maine?

I have yet to run any high school 5k courses besides NYA's so its hard to say, but based off of my past experiences on 2-mile courses around Maine throughout middle school I'd have to say Twinbrook.

What is the toughest course to run in Maine?

In my opinion, the Laliberte Invitational 4k course is the toughest to run in Maine. Even though its only 4k, it is ridiculously hilly which makes it tough towards the end of the race.

What is your favorite cross-country memory?

My favorite cross-country memory is the first time I ever went USATF XC Nationals. At the time, it was being held in Hoover, Alabama. I was in the bantam age-category so it was only a 3k race. It was really fun meeting people my age that loved to run as much as I do.

What is your favorite cross country race so far in your high school career?

Considering I've only run one regular season meet so far in high school I'd say it would have to be the one I ran at NYA last Friday. I had a good race with some good competition and I also lowered my pr by 12 seconds.

What shoes do you train in?

Saucony Kinvara 5's and Nike Zoom Elite +6's

What shoes do you race in?

Nike Victory XC's thanks to John Rogers, my coach, and his 10% discount for all Yarmouth runners at his store.

Favorite quote?

"Success isn't how far you got, but the distance you traveled from where you started."-Steve Prefontaine

Flat course or hills?

I prefer flat courses.

Facebook , Instagram or Twitter?

Instagram or Twitter, mostly Instagram though.

Favorite song at the moment?

"Hello" by Iamisee

What professional athlete would you most like to meet?

Bernard Lagat or Galen Rupp