XC Watchlist: Lila Gaudrault (Cape Elizabeth HS)

Maine 2018 XC Previews

Aug 31, 2018

XC Watchlist: Lila Gaudrault

School: Cape Elizabeth HS

Year of Graduation: 2021

2017 State Meet Finish: 19:44.37 3rd in Class B

How long have you been running and how did you get started?

I joined the middle school cross country team in 6th grade and enjoyed it right away! At the end of the season, there was a championship 2-mile race at TwinBrook with a special "varsity" race for the top 7 runners on each team. I decided I wanted to make the top 7 so I could run in that race, so I worked hard and made the team the next year, as a 7th grader. I realized then that I was super competitive and loved pushing myself to improve.

What has your summer training consisted of? How much mileage you putting in?

This summer I have been putting in some great miles and have been really excited about how my training has been going. I increased my mileage from last year to about 48-50 miles a week. Mostly I have been trying to build a good aerobic base for the upcoming season. I also mixed in a couple tempo runs and hill workouts to prepare for Beach to Beacon.

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

Individually, while I have a lot of more specific goals for each race, overall I just want to stay healthy and injury free, and keep improving! As a team, we are looking like good contenders for the state title in Class B, and hopefully we can make it to New England's as well.

What is your favorite workout?

I would have to say long tempo runs. I love running moderately fast for a long period of time, and I feel like I get a lot out of these workouts. Also, long runs in general! The longer the better!

What did you learn from last xc season that will help you improve in 2018?

That what really counts is running well in the big meets at the end of the season. It doesn't matter how you do in some random regular season meet in early September, it's about being smart and running your hardest when it matters. This year, I want to run my strongest in states, and hopefully New England's and beyond, and last year I feel like I kind of peaked mid-season.

What is your favorite course to run in Maine?

Definitely Narragansett in Gorham. I also love Twin Brook because I am stronger on hilly courses.

Out of all your running accomplishments so far, which stands out the most?

Probably Beach to Beacon this year. I ran the high school mile on Friday afternoon and ran a PR, then did the 10k the next morning and ran another PR! I was really proud of those races because they showed that I'm in pretty good shape going into this season.

What do you love most about running?

I could probably write a whole essay about everything I love about running! If I had to pick one thing, I love the feeling of freedom that running gives you. As teenagers, we're told what to do all day by teachers, parents, etc. When I run, I feel like I'm in control. Also, Cape Elizabeth has so many gorgeous places to run, and I love being outside and discovering new places on foot.

When you are not running what is your favorite thing to do?

Read, cook, and volunteer.

Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?

I tend to get really nervous before races, so I just try to stay calm and visualize having a good performance. I've found that the more relaxed I am going into the race, the better the result.

Favorite quote?

"You want me to do something? Tell me I can't do it" - Maya Angelou

Snapchat or Instagram?

I don't have Snapchat, but my Instagram is just lilagaudrault

What shoes do you race/train in?

I train in Asics and race in Sauconys. I've always worn Asics for training - the one time I tried something different, I got injured (not saying it was the shoe's fault, but...)

What professional athlete would you most like to meet?

Deena Kastor. Her book (Let Your Mind Run) was really inspiring. I've read it 3 times!

What is your favorite food?

My mom's homemade lasagna with sweet potato.

One word to describe yourself

Perfectionist