By Caitlin Murdock – Runner’s Tribe
Fresh back from the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Jamie Hiscock 17-year-old runner from Brisbane and rising steeplechase star has taken some time out of her busy schedule to talk to Runner’s Tribe about all things running.
What are your key achievements in your running career to date?
My key achievements have mostly occurred in 2018 competing at ISF World Schools Cross Country in Paris, gaining the Oceania Title for 2000m steeplechase in Vanuatu and being selected in the Australian team who competed in the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina and coming 5th overall for combined steeplechase and cross-country events.
How did you get into the steeple chase? / Why is it your favourite event?
When I first started running, I began following in my sister, Nikki’s footsteps focussing on the distance events. She enjoyed steeplechase immensely and I thought why not and gave it a go – and have loved it ever since. The steeplechase is such a fun event and is one of my favourites because it requires not only physical toughness, but also that little bit extra of mental toughness than a flat distance event.
What has been your favourite things about the Youth Olympic Games (YOG)?
The YOG was one of the most amazing experiences with countless memories made. My favourite thing about the 2018 Youth Olympic Games would definitely have to be creating friendships with people from other countries and cultures. Also, the village dining hall would definitely be a highlight of the games, with no limits to what you could eat or drink. I really enjoyed going out to other different sports, especially 3×3 basketball to cheer on the Aussie girls.
What is the most challenging thing about running?
The most challenging thing about running would definitely have to be being able to constantly believe in yourself, however with support from family, friends and coaches – this is made much easier.
What would be your proudest achievement in the sport?
My proudest achievement would definitely have to be being a part of the Australian Youth Olympic Team at Buenos Aires 2018 and coming 5th at my first major international athletics competition.
What was your preparation like leading up to YOG?
This year has been one very long season ranging from ISF World Cross Country to heading straight into athletics for YOG qualification whilst still training for State and National Cross Country. In regard to my YOG preparation, it was all positive with solid results at National Cross Country and 7 days prior to departure I was able to clock my second fastest time ever in a time-trial at training, which were all good signs.
How do you balance your running with other commitments (school)?
Running and academics are both something that I strive to do my absolute best in. In order to maintain my academic results, I ensure that my time management skills are the best they can be. Also, I make sure that I have a balance between school work and running which is the perfect outlet for tough times during senior years of school.
Do you have a running idol?
My running idol is Genevieve LaCaze, because of her attitude both on and off the track.
What is the next event you are training for?
My next event is QLD State Athletics Championships next week, where I’ll be doing the 2km steeplechase. I’m looking forward to this event particularly, since it is my last ever QLD School Sport State championship.
What do you like to do in your free time when you are not running?
When I’m not running, I can be found watching Netflix, at the beach or going out for brunch.
Can you tell us a bit about your weekly training sessions?
I have three key training sessions I regularly do:
1.Training Session 1:
15 x 100m (on 50 seconds cycle) – jog back recovery – great 1500m set.
2.Training Session 2:
20-minute monafartlek – pyramid set
- 15 seconds easy, 15 seconds hard, 15 seconds easy, 15 seconds hard
- 30 seconds easy, 30 seconds hard, 30 seconds easy, 30 seconds hard
- 60 seconds easy, 60 seconds hard, 60 seconds easy, 60 seconds hard
- 90 seconds easy, 90 seconds hard, 90 seconds easy, 90 seconds hard
- 60 seconds easy, 60 seconds hard, 60 seconds easy, 60 seconds hard
- 30 seconds easy, 30 seconds hard, 30 seconds easy, 30 seconds hard
- 15 seconds easy, 15 seconds hard, 15 seconds easy, 15 seconds hard
3.Training Session 3 – Griffin Set:
2 sets of 1600m broken down at your 1500m pace
- 800m, 50m walk/ 50m jog
- 400m, 200m, 200m
– after 400m & 200m, jog through the infield around 100m
*There is no stopping during this set. Great for race pacing!*
Thank you Jamie and good luck at States!
