2011 Fall Sports Program - Saint Viator High School

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I Love Cross Country
I’m a big fan. I love cross country. There are very few sports, or other activities for that matter, that are as democratic and interactive
as a cross country meet.
I love the fact that everyone competes. As a participant, you are not relegated to a second stringer or specialists role with limited
action. Everyone runs the same distance, at the same time. How cool is that.
Cross country is a dynamic event that requires stamina, mental toughness and physical strength, Because cross-country runners
have to trek through unpredictable terrain, often in wet and muddy weather, the sport can lead to unexpected injuries. But, every sport
has some risk.
I love that each cross country course is different. Runners compete at the same distance, but each course has its own unique
challenge - uneven terrain, killer hill, or sharp turn.
I love the fact that as a spectator you must run back and forth to gain different viewing points during the race. And if you didn’t scout
out the course, you may be stuck with seeing runners only at the start and the finish line.
I love the sight of runners in brightly-colored uniforms darting in and out of trees resplendent in their autumn hue. When the leaves
are changing and the air is brisk, where would you rather be on a sunny Saturday morning?
A few minutes before the start of each race, I love the anticipation of the runners as they stand nervously on line in pre-assigned
boxes, The starter, starting pistol in hand, and they’re off.
Cross-country running requires a different stride length, a different leg action and a different foot plant from track running. These
things cannot be picked up instantly, they only become instinctive when the runner adopts a specific cross-country style. I love the
runner that seems to perform effortlessly, and takes the win.
As the cross country season winds down, look back at your accomplishments with pride, and look forward to even better things.
Whether you qualify for state or not, be proud of the effort you made. It takes dedication to participate in cross- country.
And parents, I understand your commitment, joy and pain. I’ve been there. I’ve run cross country myself... and I’ve been a parent of
a runner as well. I’ve done the same things many of you have, such as leaving work 2-3 hours early to drive more than an hour to a meet.
I was there when my daughter put in her worst performance - and she needed a shoulder to cry on (she had forgotten her inhaler). I was
there when she won the City Meet, set a record, and needed a shoulder to lean on (to hold her up following an amazing effort). I
understand, and I salute your involvement.
Congratulations to runners and parents alike. You are all winners. You know... the sport of cross-country isn’t for everybody, but
perhaps it should be.
Jeff Larson,
A Runner’s Dad
Saint Viator Lions