A lot of people believe that cross country and track are the same, but track and cross country are actually very different from each other. Cross country is more of a long-distance running sport, where you run for long periods of time. You also run in hills, forests, parks, and trails. While track incorporates several events like sprinting, jumping, and throwing, short and long distance, and they run around the track. For some people, track is more competitive than cross country because cross country is more of a stress-relieving type of sport.

Some people enjoy running long distances, while others enjoy running short distances. “Personally, I like cross country better than track because I enjoy running long distances,” said freshman Ana Cernucan. A lot of people join cross country because they enjoy running, some join because they want to have better stamina and improve speed,  some people join cross country for stress relief, and some just join for team bonding. “I wanted to do something that would both be helpful to my other sports and that I would actually enjoy doing. I chose cross country because I had friends doing it who made it more enjoyable,” said freshman Braelyn Krupinski. 

A lot of people, when running, like to listen to music to keep themselves motivated. Some people like to think about things they’re going to do after the meet. “It’s either my pace or I don’t think I just focus on the girls in front of me,” said junior Sophia Miller. Almost every runner has made at least one mistake while running. Whether it’s wearing improper shoes or trying to ignore injuries. “A common mistake is either running too much or not running enough. Some athletes over-train, some under-train. Always listen to your coach,” said Coach K.

Every cross country runner has a goal that they want to achieve; some want to have better stamina, get faster, and also because it would be helpful in their other sports, such as soccer, basketball, flag football, etc. “My goal for this season is to get better endurance and get faster,” said junior Kemilly M. If a cross country runner and a track runner were in a sort of competition on who can last longer running, a cross country runner would win because they have better endurance and last longer running. A lot of people are afraid to try cross-country because they either don’t have good stamina or are shy about making friends.  “Something I would like to tell beginners is don’t be worried about being slower or not in as good shape as everyone else. Cross country creates a really good environment where everyone gets along and no one judges each other,” said freshman Braelyn Krupinski. 

Cross country is a wonderful sport. It boosts your discipline and endurance, lowers your injury rate, promotes a healthier lifestyle, and distracts your mind from certain situations. And you will also meet amazing people, make new friends, and have amazing supportive coaches!