There is more to runner Max Reeder than what fans may see when he is on the track. When he laces his cleats and walks to the starting line, he goes into a mindset that many are not used to seeing.
Reeder, a sophomore distance runner for the CCS men’s track and cross country teams, has been running for the last five years. For Reeder running began as something that was stemming from a sibling rivalry with his brother Jason, whom he strived to defeat. According to the Washington Runners track and cross country website, wa.milesplit.us,
Reeder has competed in state for both track and field and cross country as well as the USATF National Junior Olympic XC Championships during his high school career. According to the CCS athletics website, the Lakeside High School graduate placed 12th in the 2008 NWAACC Cross Country championships. In 2007, he placed seventh and earned himself an All-American Award.
Reeder also uses running as a way of relieving stress, and a chance to think about the events of the day with a clear head.
“When I run, it’s like being in my own little world,” Reeder said. “I just love the feeling after a long run. Just the high of the endorphins is a great feeling.”
Reeder likes to have fun when he runs, being easy going enough to enjoy it but also serious enough to accomplish what he needs to in his work outs. When he is not on the cross country trail or the track turf, he is very outgoing the loud one amongst his friends.
Reeder’s teammates describe him as diligent and slick when he is running. However when he is just hanging out with his friends in his casual clothes, he is very laid back.
There are a few things that Reeder does to prepare himself the day of a race. One consistent method he uses is a strict eating regiment on the days of competition.
“I can’t eat any dairy that day of a race. I usually just have a power bar, and two hours prior to the competition I can’t eat or drink anything.” Reeder said
As the time for competition nears, Reeder will hit the trials for a 10 minute run before hand. Once the race is over, Reeder does his usual cool down jog, and then hits the sack to get some rest.
