Q&A with Hayesville junior Dylan Johnson

After placing eighth at last year’s 1-A state championships, Hayesville’s Dylan Johnson is looking to redeem himself at this year’s meet. Johnson, who is just a junior, says he has improved greatly on his race tactics and strategies. WNCPrepTrack.com caught up with the Hayesville star to discuss his in-season progression.

WNCPrepTrack.com: You’re coming off a first-place finish at the Smoky Mountain Conference meet, clocking a season’s best time of 16:32 over 5K. How do you feel about your performance?

Dylan Johnson: I feel that I still have lots of room for improvement; I am just now getting to where I left off last year. This year I am striving to be a top contender for the 1-A state title.

WNCPrepTrack.com: In terms of mileage, where are you at in your training?
Dylan Johnson: I am at around 55-60 miles a week, but I will be increasing that to about 70 miles a week by the end of the season.

WNCPrepTrack.com: You are coached by Jim Saltz… What is he like as a coach?
Dylan Johnson: Coach Saltz is a great coach and knows how to train his runners to meet their full potential. Coach Saltz researches and stays up-to-date with the latest  training techniques. He believes in being disciplined and focused, his training has brought me a long way. We also have a great assistant coach, Zach Moss, who is a real motivator. I depend on them both to help me when it comes to my running, school and in life in general.

WNCPrepTrack.com: Have you started thinking about colleges yet? If so, what are you interested in studying?
Dylan Johnson: I have looked around a little and would prefer a smaller college, not too far from home. I’m thinking I will major in health or exercise science and go on to become a physical therapist.

WNCPrepTrack.com: What have you improved on since last season?
Dylan Johnson: I have improved greatly on my pacing, staying calm and focused during a race. I feel like I’m an all around stronger runner than last year.

WNCPrepTrack.com: What are you looking to accomplish by the end of the season?
Dylan Johnson: I am hoping to break the 16 minute barrier at Foot Locker South. I am also looking to take my team to the state championships and help them prove themselves on the course.

WNCPrepTrack.com: Dylan, thank you for your time and best of luck the remainder of the season.

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