Cross country is always a popular sport in the fall, and this year is no different. Along with hours and hours of hard practice, the Lions cross country teams have competed in five meets so far.
“As a team, we’re doing really good,” said senior Sawyer Gannon. “I think we can do better than last year.”
“Cross country is going better this year than last year,” said junior Kaden Pullar. “We are a tight-knit group of runners with fast times from the top to the bottom of varsity.”
The season so far has been successful, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams securing wins. At Saturday’s Kent Denver meet, three boys finished in the top ten; both Gannon and Pullar, along with junior Luke Suro.
Sophomore Nora Tolen finished first in the girls’ race, with senior Scarlett Montoya finishing second. Freshman Amy Olaechea and sophomore Grace Foresman also ranked in the top ten.
As with many other sports at LHS, the number of new kids in Cross Country declined during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the numbers have increased since the lifting of activity restrictions.
“Last year we didn’t have many [underclassmen], but this year we do,” said Gannon.
“We have lots of participation from all classes including two up-and-coming freshmen,” said Pullar.
Despite these setbacks, Cross Country is still a close community, with Gannon noting how this atmosphere pushes people to work harder. Practicing every day can be difficult, but both Gannon and Pullar highlighted the rewarding and essential nature of preparation.
“It’s important to put in the work and try,” said Gannon. “Practice is more difficult mentally and physically.”
“It is not difficult. Running is my passion and I enjoy it. It is worth it as it improves my stamina and helps me in races,” said Pullar.
Cross Country still has two more invites to look forward to before leagues in mid-October. Their next meet is at 3:00 pm at Clement Park this Friday, September 23. Once the cross country season is over, you’ll see many of the same kids, including Gannon and Pullar, in track and field during the spring.
