It seems only fitting that a school with the nickname Roadrunners would show a propensity of distance running. In two years, Marco Forester has built a cross country program that is formidable both in size and performance. More than 50 students are on the Roadrunner cross country team this fall, competing in meets across Southern California.
The team practices three times per week, meeting in the classroom of their coach, physical education teacher Mr. Chavez. He lays out the route for the day’s run, with his fellow coaches Mrs. Lobo and Mr. Corbin, before they warm up on the blacktop and head out to train. The team members come from all levels of athletic background, some competing in other sports and some joining a team for the first time. All who are interested in trying out cross country are welcome. The team held its first summer camp, meeting over the break for training to prepare for this season.
The training and dedication have paid off, as the Roadrunners have recorded seven first-place finishes in meets this season. Melissa Parra and Lana Turk took the top-two spots in the 7th grade girls race at the Woodcrest Christian Invitational. Noah Loevenguth won the 8th grade boys races at Woodcrest and the Pacific Grove League meet. Alice Openshaw took second place in the JV race at the XC Grit and Grind in San Marcos. Liam Kirkpatrick has been the top finisher for the seventh grade boys in every race this year.
