Fall Cross Country Season, 2024: Matthew put together an incredibly consistent fall season, running very strong times and finishing high up in many of the races. His best finish was an individual win at the Coronado Cougar Classic in the smaller school division, where he ran a time of 16:29. However, by far his best race of the whole season was his runner-up finish at the state meet. He ran a time of 16:07, which was only a few seconds behind his PR of 16:01, which he ran on a much faster course.
Matthew shared a little bit about his course preferences when it comes to cross country and stated, "I prefer the strategic and challenging courses. They offer a greater reward, as runners achieve something more difficult and are better prepared for future cross country courses. For example, racing on a hilly course like the state course taught me how to manage my effort, which has made me a smarter runner on all types of terrain." Clearly he showed that ability to manage his effort at the state meet last year. (Pictured above: Matthew taking the victory at the Coronado Classic, Photo Credit: Jen Jardeleza).
Matthew also mentioned his excitement for the Flyin' Ryan Invitational, where he ran his current PR of 16:01:
I love this meet so much because it's the old regionals course and because it has a deep meaning behind it. The Flyin' Ryan Invitational is a race that serves as a memorial race in honor of runner Ryan Vomacka, a Mountain View High School graduate who tragically passed away after a battle with brain cancer. I've had an incredible experience at this meet and since it's in my hometown, I get to do numerous workouts and have had plenty of positive, impactful memories at this place.
Training and Goals: In terms of workouts, Matthew loves threshold and mile repeat workouts. They help with building his aerobic base, but it also helps with his mindset. Typically, threshold workouts are longer and include less rest in between the repetitions, making them great options for improving both endurance and to develop mental toughness.
For Matthew, his goals center around giving 100% for his last season and hopefully setting a PR in the process. He also wants to see his team achieve the same. Clearly, Matthew is very team-oriented, which can help immensely for someone to reach their own individual goals. The saying goes that you want to bring others up with you, and that is clearly the focus for Matthew.
Outside of Running: For most student-athletes, balancing everything is key. Matthew admitted that he does not always balance everything perfectly but you have to be able "to roll with the punches ... You don't always know what tomorrow looks like, and as one of my favorite music artists, Bob Marley says, "'Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet."' It's hard to balance everything in life, but if you embrace it and try your best, '"Every little thing is gonna be alright."' (Pictured to the right: Hayden racing at the John C. Martin Invitational, Photo Credit: Jen Jardeleza).
On top of all of his running and balancing school, family and friends, Matthew enjoys learning new skills. He mentioned that he loves to play the piano, draw, cook, fish, and play video games. "I love learning new skills and things every day. Whether that be a simple song on my piano or baking something new, learning something new helps me take my mind away from running and relax from all the other stresses of life."
With the 3A individual title wide open this year on the boys' side, Matthew Hayden has a shot at taking the win. Clearly, he has a good outlook not only on his running, but also just on life in general. That may be his key to taking the victory.
