Middle School Cross Country: Underrated?

On a scenic sunny fall Sunday afternoon in Woodland Park, Kabir S-K prepares for his incredible Cross-Country championship race. As Kabir warms up, he prepares his body and mind to run 1.35 miles as fast as physically possible. Ten minutes later, he lines up on the starting line with his teammates Max H., Jacob A., and Jonathan H. Against Lakeside are 44 other schools in the CYO. The official counts and blows the whistle. They’re off! More than 150 adrenaline-filled kids from 6th grade sprint down the hill at the beginning of the course. 

Around midway through the race, the kids spread out, starting to fatigue from the running. Finally, Kabir crosses the finish line, fully exhausted from his race. He finished with a time of 8 minutes and 50 seconds. Less than 30 seconds later, Max and Jacob cross the finish line. This year, Lakeside’s 6th-grade boys swept the AA podium. Kabir, Max, and Jacob got first, second, and third place, respectively. 

There are only a few options in fall sports for middle school students every year. They are soccer and cross country and, for 8th-graders, crew. Soccer tends to be the more popular choice. Most people think cross country is “only” running. If you actually race, though, you will find that cross country presents some incredible challenges. Cross-country athletes not only need a lot of stamina and leg power, but also need to master the mental part and the breathing. Without all of these skills, you can’t be a good runner. 

Cross country runners train at the Upper School track and Northacres park. The team runs at paces and distances according to their skill level. At the end of every practice, there is even a fun game that we play. If you play any other sport, cross country can improve your stamina and pace. 

Some people that I asked said they didn’t like running because of the exhaustion. While fatigue is a real thing in running, you will get used to it over time and it will get less tiring. If you can’t make it to practices or can’t join the sport, you can also run in a trail next to your house or in a big 5k event. Running outside can get you to relax a little bit, and enjoy the beautiful Pacific Northwest nature around you. 

A cool fact about running is that once you hit your stride, your body releases endorphins for a short time. Endorphins give you happiness and pleasure for a short time. This is called “Runner’s High.” If you are stressed out about homework or anything else, running is a great way to relieve that stress and think straighter.

Cross country is truly an outstanding sport with outstanding runners who should get more credit. The best part of cross country is that anyone can join! You don’t need to be fast or have any experience running. If you need an incentive to do it, getting in the top 10 in the championship meet gives you a free T-shirt! We are certain that everybody who joins cross country will feel included and cared for. See you next year! ;)