.jpg)
6. Erin McCarthy
Bangor HS, SR
Notable Finishes: 2nd NM Class A Regional 2019, 3rd KVAC Championship 2019, 8th Class A States 2019, 69th New England Championship
Comments: McCarthy continued her upward progression as a junior going from 14th in Class A as a sophomore up to eighth last fall. She was the Northern Maine Regional runner-up last fall, and this year will be shooting for the top spot. She's got top-five talent and won't be afraid to mix it up with the top runners this fall.
How has COVID-19 affected you?
Because of COVID-19 and quarantine, I was unable to see a lot of my family for a while specifically my grandparents who are high risk. This made me realize how important it is to be present while you are spending time with people. You will never know how long it will be before you can see them again.
What has your summer training consisted of? How much mileage are you putting in?
I ran roughly 350 miles this summer. My workouts consisted of hills, tempo runs, progression runs, and mile repeats.
What are your goals for the upcoming season?
My goal this season is to break 19:00 and place third at states.
What is your favorite workout that makes you feel most prepared for success?
My favorite workouts are hills and mile repeats. I feel so accomplished when I'm done.
What did you learn from the last xc season that will help you improve in 2020?
It's all about your mentality. I have to work on getting in a good headspace before races and carrying that through the race.
How is your team looking for the fall?
Our team is looking amazing this year for both boys and girls. We have a whole bunch of new runners joining us that are very talented and we have a really great atmosphere. Everyone has put a lot of work in over the summer and we are all really looking forward to the seas
How do you stay motivated when you don't want to run?
If I'm feeling unmotivated I think about my goals for the season. I remind myself how much better I will feel after running and how I'd regret it if I didn't.
What is the greatest piece of advice you've ever received in the sport?
What are the top three "little things" that you do to prevent injury?
For one I would say I'm not very good at this but in my experience a thorough warm-up and good sneakers. I would also advise you to watch out for roots, those can be problematic if you aren't paying attention.
What is the one thing you have done during COVID-19 that you have never had time for in the past?
What's the farthest you've ever run at one time?
The farthest I've run all at once is 14 miles, so for those who ask, yes, I've technically run a half marathon.
If every day were a holiday, what would yours be?
This is a tough one, I think I'd have to say National Bubble Gum Day. (But if we are being honest what day isn't Bubble Gum day.)
My favorite subject is definitely science, specifically biology.
If you could go on a run with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be? Why?
If I were to run with anyone right now it would be Goofy. He may be hard to beat but he'd make my form look impeccable.
If your teammates gave you a superlative, what would it be?
