The Los Osos Cross Country team embodies a blend of determination, resilience, and passion. These athletes are ready by sixth period, lacing up their shoes and ready to hit the trails, driven by a fire to push them forward.
Determination is a testament when it comes to the runners, as they commit to the demands of pushing through the pain and the fatigue of being under the scorching sun. Understanding that every mile logged is getting closer to their personal goal. Freshman Maddie Flores said, “Cross country is surprisingly really fun. I never expected myself to be in a sport that runs 100% of the time, but I love doing it. Cross country helps build my endurance, and is also preparing me for the softball season.”
Their hardwork and determination during the preseason is shown when season starts, being able to shave off seconds from their personal best at races. With their fueling desire to be better with every stride.
Resilience can be seen upon runners as they run through uncomfortable conditions. These runners are learning to embrace discomfort, knowing that in the long run it will be better.
Their resilience not only helps them succeed in cross country but also builds a mental toughness that’ll carry over all aspects of life.
Junior Emmery Mitchell talked about their annual meet in Morro Bay, which was her third trip participating in this event. “This year, my experience at Morro Bay was very memorable. I spent the bus ride up joking with friends. Before my race Saturday, I was fairly anxious, but was put at ease when I looked at the start list. In comparison to last year, there were significantly more underclassmen in the varsity race. Meaning I would likely be racing against less experienced runners. Despite the size of the race being roughly the same. This race is a good start to the season, as it is relatively flat and generally has good weather. In comparison to last year’s 2.5 mile course, this year the course was 3 miles,” said Mitchell.
Passion is a driving force behind every high school cross-country runner. The love for the sport motivates runners to keep going, even on the hardest days and the people can really be uplifting.
Sophomore Finn Lukkarila said, “I really grew to love running the summer going into freshman year because of how welcoming the team is. The cross country team is very accepting, and I have bonded and formed strong friendships with most people on the team.”
This passion isn’t about winning races, instead it’s the joy and satisfaction of knowing they have given it their all, becoming a way of life.
If you are a student not knowing which sport to join, and want to join a fun sport that brings people together and makes many fun memories, then you should join the Los Osos cross country team.