An Interview with OP Cross Country Runner Thomas Lamonte

Recently, I caught up with fellow sophomore Thomas Lamonte of the Cross Country team. This is his first year at Oratory as he just transferred in from Seton Hall. I have a couple classes with him and got the chance to ask him a few questions regarding the Cross Country team.

Jacob- Does the team have any objectives they look to achieve before the end of the season?

Tom- Yes:

1. Win Catholics (again)
2. Win the Mountain Conference (for the first time)
3. Place top 3 in Union County
4. Top 12 running under 18 minutes
5. Top 7 running under 17 minutes
6. Everyone running under 22 minutes with a team average of 19:30
7. Beat Summit
8. NEVER lose down the chute, NEVER cut corners, NEVER walk
9. ALWAYS stay healthy, ALWAYS hydrate, ALWAYS eat well, ALWAYS sleep well

Jacob- Have you set any personal goals that you want to accomplish?

Tom- I want to run sub 19. My best this season is a 19:29.

Jacob- How many meets are left for the team to compete in?

Tom- There are four meets remaining for JV, while Varsity has more than four races left. Our next meet takes place this Friday at the Greystone Invitational.

Jacob- What helps you prepare the most for a meet?

Tom- Showing up on time, and I like to hydrate until my race begins.