Monday, January 21, 2013

72nd Interview: Iona College Ethan Heywood

This blog is the 72nd interview of Iona College's own Ethan Heywood, one of my #BritirishTakeOver Bros



How did you get started in running?When I was about 10 I decided I would get involved in my school’s cross country team and really enjoyed it so I got involved in ‘little athletics’ and I’ve loved it ever since!

What do you tell people that don't get our sport of distance running?
I guess with this the question that comes to mind is "Why do you run?" Most people don’t understand what it’s like and how much passion there is in our sport, to them it’s just ‘running.’ I suppose I just tell them that I love the thrill of competing and racing, running is such a great outlet and helps with everything, as well as having that competitive side.

What are you current PR's?
Long overdue for improvement, but currently I have a 3:50 1500m, 8:17 3000m and a 14:37 5000m.

How do you manage being a college student with being a college distance runner?
They compliment each other more than a lot of people think. It helps me with study to be disciplined and training hard, I still have plenty of time to get my work done and chill out even when training is at it’s toughest.

Who are your favorite professional and/or college distance runner(s) past and/or present & why?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Ovett and Coe, I used to watch their races all the time with my dad. We had a bunch of them on DVD and sometimes we’d just sit there for hours and watch them, I’ve lost count how many times I’ve seen some of them.

Best or Worst thing about being a distance running?
The best things are the lifestyle and experiences through the sport, and definitely the people you meet. Distance running has taken me to places all over the world and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. To be honest, the worst part would have to be some of those early mornings, the grind, but you learn to love it so it’s never that bad. Other than that, I’d say having to stay really focused, and knowing when to say no when all your mates are going out, that can be tough sometimes!

Your Favorite Moment of your distance running career?
So far, it would be a toss up between winning the Australian under 20 cross country title, or finishing 40th in the World Junior Cross in Spain.

Goals for 2013?
I’m finally fit and healthy again after spending the last year struggling with injury so I just want to get out there and have a go. I’m not expecting fireworks, just to start running fast again, then we’ll see where we can go from there.

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