Aiden Probst is a senior Cross Country runner for Penn High School. He runs for the varsity tean and has a 5k PR of 16:06.
How did you first get into cross-country running?
In 4th grade I did Running Is Elementary and I was really good at it. I also got the school mile record for Elm Road, so at that point, I knew I was a runner.
What motivates you to keep pushing yourself, especially on tough days?
The main thing that motivates me is knowing that my friends on the team are out there running too. I don’t want to let them down, so that’s a big motivator.
Do you have any role models or athletes you look up to in the running world?
My biggest role model is my brother Nick Probst. He was the number one runner for Penn his senior year and I can always go to him for advice.
Can you walk us through a typical week of training during the season?
We first start with a tempo or hard run on Monday, then an easy 6.5-mile run on Tuesday. Then a hard repeat workout on Wednesday. After that, I have two easy days and then I race on Saturday.
How did feel after coming first for Penn at the NIC Stomp meet?
I felt really good, and accomplished. I knew I had to keep working hard to stay in first place. I was a little surprised, but I always knew I had it in me.
How do you mentally prepare for races? Do you have any pre-race rituals or routines?
Not really. I try not to overthink it, and I always know I’ll be ready when the gun goes off. I just go out there and compete.
Do you have a specific strategy when racing, like pacing yourself or targeting certain runners?
I pace off my faster teammates like Mathew Givens because he was faster than me last year.
How do you handle difficult race conditions, like heat, hills, or bad weather?
I try to ignore it and focus on what I’m doing in the race. Everyone else has to deal with the heat to, so it’s not like I’m at a disadvantage.
Can you describe a particularly challenging race you’ve faced and how you overcame it?
Last weekend there was a big hill at the end. It was a fight to get up the hill, but I knew I had to finish strong so I stayed focused and got it done.
What are your personal goals for this season?
I want to run under 16 minutes in the 5k. My other goal is to be the fastest runner for Penn.
