Andrew Snyder was a key member of the 2008 CIF Championship team that went on to get 2nd in the CIF State Championships and 10th place at Nike Cross Nationals.  A specialist in the 1500 and mile during track, Andrew is a starting member of the UCI cross country team as well.  Andrew is a senior majoring in mechanical engineering.

Q: What do you miss the most about High School XC?

A: I miss the guys that I ran with and always having everyone out there supporting one another. Thousand Oaks XC has a bond that a lot of teams don't have.

Q: Can you describe a favorite High School moment?

A: I have to say making it to NXN and finishing 10th there.  I have watched a couple interviews from NXN and I always laugh because we look so young and really awkward. Looking back on that whole trip, I noticed that it really summed up the season that we had and I will never forget heading up to Oregon and running that race.

2008 TOXC Boys right after NXN 10th Place Finish.  Andrew is second from right, standing at first.

Q: How would you summarize your high school running experience?

A: I wouldn't have changed anything about it. It was one of the greatest experiences I have ever had.

Q: What has running taught you that helped you outside of running?

A: Running has taught me many things, but having a positive mental attitude is one that has really stood out to me. I try to think positive before taking an exam or when I am at a social event because it is really noticeable to others when you are negative towards anything. I am only hurting myself when I think that way. Running has helped me with my positive outlook, but it is something I will continue to work on. 

Q: How does your experience in college running different than in HS?

A: College has definitely been more difficult due to the higher mileage and a harder course load in school. Besides that I would say they are very similar because I have bonded with my college team and I still have a lot of fun like I did in high school.

Q: How has your outlook on running changed since you left for college?

A: Running in college is definitely not the easiest thing to do. It requires a lot more commitment and I have had my ups and downs, but I do not regret choosing to continue my running career. Running at this level does not last forever so I am enjoying it as much as I can now.

Q: What are your goals of your upcoming college season?

A: This cross country season I want to run in the 24:30's.  For track I would like to run 1:50 in the 800m and 3:46 in the 1500m.

Andrew Snyder

Graduating Year: TOHS Class of 2009

College:  UC Irvine.  Andrew will be a senior this Fall.

College PRs:  1:53 in the 800m, 3:52 in the 1500m, 15:02 in the 5k, and 25:11 for the 8k.