The monotonous sound of sneakers slapping the pavement, heat waves distorting the horizon- the sun’s barely up yet, most people their age are sound asleep, enjoying the last slow moments before school. For eleven girls and boys, though, waking before dawn or enduring the hot Texas afternoons after school are the norm, as they represent their school in one of the most demanding sports offered: cross country.
The Hallettsville High School Cross Country team has been working hard with practice and meets. They’ve competed in five races so far, practicing at the track and running through town since early August. As both a physically and mentally demanding sport, cross country asks it’s runners to push past what they think they are capable of.
“My cross country goals for this year is to run a sub 21 minute 5K, while it won’t win state, it will always be a personal best, and in cross country it’s you against the work,” expressed Gabriel (Gabe) Dodson, a sophomore. “I’ll keep working hard as I can to get there.”
In Texas, female high school cross country runners run two miles, while males run 3.1, or five kilometers. In training for these lengthy and challenging races, Head Coach Jensen Schindler encourages the runners to hold themselves to high standards.
“I’m looking forward to them trying their hardest,” said Schindler. “And hopefully more runners medaling.”
The early mornings and hot afternoons are paying off, as the runners keep getting faster and faster.
“It’s been going really good and they’ve been working really hard and it’s really showing at the meets,” said Schindler.
The district race marking the start of the post season will take place on October 7, in Yoakum at 9:00 a.m. The Hallettsville Cross Country teams are looking to finish in the top three team placement to advance to regionals, or in the top ten as individuals.
