photo credit Tracy Rollins
Kathleen Thompson, a member of the state champion girls 4x800 squad from Parkway Central continues our Where Are They Now series.
Where did you continue your running career after high school?
I am currently a senior running at the University of Kansas.
What was the biggest adjustment you had to make to compete at the college level?
The intensity of the workouts and races was a change. Everyone is fast and no one slows down. Training with the likes of Diane Robison and Emily Sisson in high school definately helped but it was still a surprise when I started running tempos at my high school race pace.
Is there anything you can tell high school athletes to better prepare them for the college experience?
Put the same amount of work and effort into getting a college degree as you do into your running career. Also, always have faith in your coach, your teammates and yourself.
What memories from competing in high school stand out the most?
Winning state and setting the state record in the 4x800m is still one of the best days of my life. I loved nothing more than sharing that moment with my teammates.
What do you miss most about running in high school?
I miss the laid back atmosphere. The races were always competitive but we all had respect for each other off the track. I miss my teammates the most and the kind of unconditional dedication we had to each other and our sport.
What piece of coaching or advice that someone gave you has been the biggest help?
I have to give a shout out to Coach Banta at Parkway Central. He told me my senior year that "it's fun to run fast." Although it takes overcoming some fear, it definately is fun going fast. Also Coach Whittlesey, my current coach, has taught me how to have balance in my life. Having balance between school, running, friends and fun has made my time at KU an unforgettable experience. Rock Chalk!
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Photos from 2009 KU Relay's DMR
Want to be featured in our Where are they now series? Email PEverett@milesplit.com and answer the questions above.