With fall just around the corner, Cross Country runners are gearing up to a promising season with their eyes on the prize.
Cross Country is the only fall sport that focuses on long distance running. A regular Cross Country race is a distance of five kilometers or roughly three miles. Just like any other team sport at WS, the runners aim to make it all the way to states.
“I want the girls team to go after the Conference title again and I want us to make it onto the podium at states,” senior captain Ana Suarez said.
The boys’ team has not gone to states since 2006, their goal is to break that streak and get placed at states. While the girls’ team has gone to states for the past five consecutive years, the pressure is on for the fairly young team to step up and continue the long streak.
“We definitely expect the maximum amount of effort we can give,” freshman Caroline Wittich said.
A top runner from each team has been removed from this past season in 2013. Both teams are now overlooked and the expectations have decreased. The girls and boys both strive to not only prove the rankings wrong, but exceed them.
“As a team, I want to upset all the rankings and expectations that we aren’t supposed to be a good team this year,” senior captain Tim Ward. “I hope and believe that we will place second at states.”
Talent alone won’t get them to states. The teams have to go through rigorous training to reach their peak for post season races. Practices include a huge amount of distance training and workouts; Varsity has also incorporated Wednesday morning practices.
“I like to have a solid base for summer, then we start to build with longer intervals and then we sharpen with faster intervals,” Coach Chris Pellegrini said.
Athletes train throughout summer to get a good base for the season. This dedication is necessary in order to prevent injuries from the huge amount of mileage. To prepare for the most physically strenuous race courses, athletes are sent to hill repeats, seven mile runs, and much more. While working on their physical strength, athletes must also work cooperatively to establish good team chemistry.
“Everyone has to be in sync with the same mindset to be able to do well,” Ward said. “That’s one of the hardest parts: getting everyone on the same page.”
With a balanced team, the athletes have a bright future ahead of them and are hopeful for a successful and fun season.
“I know with work and development we have the opportunity to accomplish some great things together,” Suarez said.