Cayuga’s Erin Thompson Wins the 400 at the Washburn Open

Kyle Owens is joined by Erin Thompson—former Cayuga Lady Cat and current UT Tyler track & field standout—on this episode of East Texas Sports Now. Erin recaps her trip to Kansas for the Washburn Open, where she picked up her first win of the season in the 400-meter dash and shares what it felt like to see that time on the board after the race.

The conversation digs into the differences between indoor and outdoor track, including how banked indoor tracks change race strategy, pacing, and adjustments compared to a standard outdoor 400m track. Erin also talks through the early part of her indoor season, how she evaluates progress meet-to-meet, and what she’s focused on as the season moves forward.

From small-town roots to competing at the collegiate level in Tyler, Erin reflects on the transition, the mental side of racing, and what it takes to keep building momentum throughout the year. If you follow East Texas athletes, love track & field, or want a behind-the-scenes look at how a 400 runner prepares and competes, this episode is for you.