The girls and boys cross country teams are nearly crossing the finish line of this season. The teams have worked hard and in turn, achieved success throughout the season. On Thursday, Oct. 13, the teams competed in the 19-4A District Cross Country Meet at Claiborne Park. Both teams placed second and will be competing in the Regional Meet on Monday, Oct. 24. 

“When the team placed second, I was elated,” cross country coach Dena Adkins said. “I was so proud of all of my runners because they rose to the occasion. I asked them to leave it all on the course and have no regrets when the race was over. I have really enjoyed watching this group work together and become a TEAM.” 

Senior Annabelle Fisher placed first in the girl’s division and was named District Champion.  

“It was a surreal feeling,” Fisher said. “I am just glad I got to win for a third year in a row. Preparing for this race took a lot of mental and physical effort. I have had to run just about every day and eat cleaner.” 

According to junior Richard Perez, he is doing better than last year and enjoying the season with the rest of the team. 

“My season is going great so far,” Perez said. “I’m having tons of fun and enjoying every single bit of the season because it’s my last season with my senior friends. My performance and mindset, compared to last season, is by far much different and better. I am much stronger physically and mentally this season.” 

According to junior and first year runner, Haelee Fitzhugh, the toughest part of running cross country is not the running but having a mindset to persevere and being confident in yourself. Her motivation comes from the feeling of accomplishment after she competes. 

“The most challenging part of cross country is pushing yourself to your limits and not letting other people intimidate you,” Fitzhugh said. “That last sprint and crossing the finish line is what motivates me. At the end of the race, medal or no medal, it’s always a great feeling.” 

The following boys placed individually: Keiffer Reed – 7th, Ethan Hoffpauir – 8th, Jonathan Ly – 11th, Marshall Braus – 13th, Richard Perez – 22nd, James Martin – 24th, and Derek Lopez – 26th. The following girls placed individually: Annabelle Fisher – 1st, Karlie Seymour – 9th, Jenna Hallman – 11th, Haelee Fitzhugh – 13th, Allyson Welch – 27th, Lacey Cupp – 30th, Carinna Mayo – 37th