Joe Thorne?s career at Texas did not start like many people thought it would. As one of the top recruits in the country, Thorne entered college with high hopes only to experience injuries which kept him from competing at his highest level. Not until Thorne?s fourth year, and third cross country season, did his persistence finally break through when he reached nationals. Thorne finished 15th at nationals and received his first of two All-American honors. The following year in 2006 he received his second All-American honor when he finished 37th. In both of those years, Thorne led his Longhorns to top ten team finishes. Another reflection of his persistence on the track is that Thorne holds Texas? 3,000 meter indoor record.