American distance runner Ben True will be competing for a spot on the 2016 Olympic team in just a few days time. We had a chance to ask him a few questions before the action in Oregon begins.
1. How has training been going in preparation for the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials?
Training has been going well.
2. Whats your mileage been like in the buildup to the trials?
It varies greatly but currently in the mid 80s to low 90s.
3. What is it like training in New Hampshire this time of year?
Training in New Hampshire this time of the year has been great. The heat hasn’t been too bad lately and the humidity hasn’t rolled in yet.
4. Your recent race at the Prefontaine Classic was not far off from your PR. How did you feel about your performance there?
My race at the Pre Classic was a good start to the season and good practice of getting the body and mind used to racing again. It shows that my training has been going well, but that I still have a lot of work to do.
5. Are you planning on the 5k/10k double at the Olympic Trials?
Yes
6. In your opinion what will be the harder event to qualify in? The 5k or the 10K?
Right now, there is a strong contingent of American distance runners. Both the 10k and 5k will be a challenging team to make, but I would have to say that the American 5k field is a bit deeper, and depending on how the race plays out, could be the harder event to qualify in. I think it will be harder to make the US 5k team than it will be to make the 5k Olympic final.
7. Your sixth place finish at the World Championships last summer was a big breakthrough in your career. How much as that done for your confidence going into this summer of racing?
Being able to compete on the world stage was a good confidence boost and proved that I belong racing against the best in the world. The more confidence that you have in your racing, the more relaxed you can go into races and better put yourself into a position to race well.
8. Do you feel more or less pressure to make the team this time around?
Only personal pressure.
9.Will you continue to race this summer after the Olympics are over?
Yes, there are a few Diamond League meets after the Olympics that I plan on racing, and will probably run a few road races in the fall.
10. What other sports besides track & field do you like to watch at the Summer Olympics?
My wife, Sarah True, is an American triathlete and will be competing in her second Olympics in Rio, so naturally I am a big fan of triathlon and will be looking forward to watching her compete!
Featured Image Credit: Kevin Morris/Getty Images