Cross country is one of the most challenging sports physically and mentally. However, that didn’t stop Alexis Becker from improving her times from last year. In the first meet of the season, sophomore Alexis Becker used all her might to run up and down the tough elevated slopes during the Pole Green Classic at Pole Green Park. She dropped four minutes off of her 5k time as a 15-year-old. In less than one season, she rendered herself the most improved athlete on the girl’s cross country (XC) team.
“I run because I love feeling accomplished. My goal for the season is to break 25 minutes in the 5k and place higher on the team than last year,” said Becker.
As the upcoming races approach, she diligently prepares herself despite her minor abdominal injury, by attending every practice with virtuous ambition and contagious positivity. The most recent race at Pole Green truly kicked off the season for cross country runners, with senior Lily Snow running an incredible race and contributing to the team’s success when she placed second with a 5k time of 18:39. In addition, junior Colby Burcham led the boys’ varsity team across the rolling hills when he placed fourth with a 5k time of 16:15.
“Running is a great stress reliever and it gives me a good sense of accomplishment. My teammates have become my best friends and it makes it a fun environment to be a part of,” Burcham said.
Many other athletes on the team can vouch for this as close relationships are inevitably fostered every season.
“Our team runs for each other. We don’t run for our individual selves, but for our team as a whole. Due to our team’s dynamic, the overall atmosphere is welcoming and inspiring. Each individual athlete bestows their love and passion for running by giving the practices their all,” said Elise Weisenburger.
The team’s primary goal is to win states on both the girls and boys side.