Evan Hill: Male Athlete of the Week
Can you walk us through your race Saturday?
My plan going in was to just try and stay connected to that front pack throughout the race and then try and move up spots in the last mile. During the race, I was in a good spot through the first mile. I was at the back of the front pack which was where I wanted to be. I ended up staying there until about 1K left where I started to try and move up some more and ended up catching guys on the final stretch. Overall, I was super happy with how it turned out.
How does it feel to break that 15:00 barrier for the first time?
It feels great. That was one of my biggest goals this season so I'm glad I could achieve it this early in the season.
What got you into running?
I played soccer growing up but there was no soccer team at my school when I was going into 7th grade so I was looking for a sport to play. My cousins (Cooper and Benson Atkins) both ran cross country and track, so I decided to try it and ended up loving it.
Speaking of cousins, what does it mean to be on your way to being another great Scottsboro distance runner?
I'm super lucky to be part of the team and culture we have in Scottsboro. It means a ton to be a part of the dynasty and I'm excited to see it continue even after I'm gone.
What makes the culture in Scottsboro so special?
Everyone on the team is super close and supportive and they want to be there every day at practice to get better. We all know what's expected of us and we all want to get better as a team and not just as individuals.
What's the hardest workout you've ever done?
It would probably be one towards the end of track last season. 3 miles at tempo-threshold, 5 minute jogging rest, then 3x1K at 2:46, 2:47, 2:46.
What's your go-to training shoe?
Right now, I'm using the New Balance 1080 V12 as a daily trainer and for workouts I use Flyknit Streaks or the Vaporfly 2s.
Who is the most famous person you've ever met?
Probably Craig Engels at NXR a few years ago.
What's your prerace routine?
I usually try and wake up at least 4 hours before my race and eat a peanut butter bagel. And for the warm up we go 8 minutes easy, 5 minutes tempo, 5x30s, 5x15s, and then 2-3 minutes jog back to the tent.
If you could visit any place in the world, where would it be?
Iceland.
What do you like to do when you're not running?
Play video games?
Any in particular? And which teammate beats you the most when y'all play?
We play a lot of CSGO (Counter Strike: Global Offensive) and the best of all of us is probably River Green.
