Maryjeanne is poised to improve on her 12th place finish from a year ago (Photo Run image credit)
Maryjeanne Gilbert (Sr., Peoria Notre Dame)
Regional Finish: 3rd place- 17:23
Maryjeanne started her 2015 harrier campaign like a stew in a crock pot- slow, hearty, and steady. The first two races of the season for Gilbert were wins but not in the same vein as friendly foes Judy Pendergast (Naperville North) and Lindsey Payne (Glenbard West) who set ablaze every course they touched down on. The next race- the massive Richard Spring Invitational- would be Gilbert's home meet and a match with the red hot Payne. As it turned it wasn't much of a battle as Payne ran away the winner by 18 seconds. There were some whispers in the aftermath that Gilbert was reeling. But in reality she was in the midst of a serious training block that made her legs feel cement blocks.
The remaining portion of the IHSA season was all wins including a dominating repeat performance at the state championship in 16:23. Maryjeanne stated along the way that her main goal was getting back to California and showing that she is one of the runners in the nation. The proof was in the pudding at the Footlocker Regional with a solid third place finish.
The final installment for the Notre Dame University commit is upon us all. Maryjeanne took a few moments away from the lab where she has been training heavy to share a few thoughts.
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Are you ready for the upcoming FL meet?
I'm very ready for the meet! It will be very exciting for me to get to go back to San Diego and compete again.
What have you been doing training wise since the regional meet?
The week immediately following regionals, I ran a pretty high mileage week of 70 miles and had some good quality workouts in the mix. My coach and I really just go by feel. I try to listen to my body and respond according to its needs. This week, I significantly reduced my mileage to concentrate on speed and making sure my body is rested going into Saturday's race.
What is your goal for San Diego?
In terms of a goal, I'd really like to beat my time and place from last year: 12th place, 18:06. Top 10 would be awesome. It all depends on the day; anything could happen. I am confident that I will give it my all no matter what!
Maryjeanne Footlocker post-race interview
-Thank you Maryjeanne and good luck this weekend!
