Champion’s Journey: Jacob Thomson’s Path from State Champion to Professional Runner

In this episode of Airey Bros Radio, we dive deep with Jacob Thomson, a standout athlete with an impressive track record both on and off the field. Jacob is a 12-time Kentucky state champion who continued his stellar career at the University of Kentucky, becoming a three-time SEC Champion and three-time All-American. Transitioning to professional running, Jacob's achievements include competing in the 2021 Olympic trials 10K, securing a runner-up position in the 2022 US Marathon Championships, and clinching the 2023 US Half Marathon Championship title.Currently residing in Flagstaff, Arizona, Jacob runs professionally for Under Armour's Dark Sky Distance team and has founded Thomson Training, where he coaches over 200 athletes across the US. In this episode, Jacob shares insights into his early running career, the transition to professional running, his coaching philosophy, and his dedication to the sport. We also discuss the significance of the Bluegrass Running Camp and its impact on young athletes. Join us as we uncover the mindset and training methods that have driven Jacob's success.

Topics Covered:

• Jacob's early running career and high school success
• Transition to the University of Kentucky and professional running
• Achievements in the 2021 Olympic Trials and US Championships
• Running for Under Armour and the Dark Sky Distance team
• Founding Thomson Training and coaching philosophy
• Life in Flagstaff and the benefits of high-altitude training
• Double threshold training and its application
• Balancing coaching and professional running
• The Bluegrass Running Camp and its significance
• Future goals and upcoming races

Quotes

• "If you keep a high school kid healthy for four years, they're going to be two seasons ahead of probably the average kid."
• "Consistency, hitting goal paces, and managing volume are the pillars of my training philosophy."
• "Being durable is almost a skill or a talent itself."

Thomson Training 
Instagram @runthomsontraining / @jtcougars8
Blue Grass Running Camps
Instagram @bluegrassrunningcamp