There is one mile left out of the three that need to be completed. However, it feels like 100 miles are left. Lungs burning, head pounding, legs screaming and sweat is pouring, yet, the running cannot stop until the finish line.  

This is what Eagle High’s cross country team experiences every race. The goal of every race is to beat their past best time, and running is both mentally and physically demanding.  

“My goal this year is to get a sub nineteen-minute race time,” said junior Josie Roy. She has been on the girls’ varsity team for two years now. Along with her dedication to cross country, she enjoys her teammates and the bonds they have made throughout the years. Talking with the team on runs is one of her favorite parts of the sport.  

Roy’s goal is a goal many try to accomplish. However, she knows she will succeed this year. Eagle High’s cross country races are five kilometers long. Roy will be running about a six-thirty mile for over three miles.

This year, the cross country team will run about seven races. Two of those races will be out of state in California and Washington. Being able to travel out of state to compete is a highlight for the team. 

“I love the team unity and common ground we all have because we race together and train together,” said sophomore Betsy Reeder. The team is very supportive, united and focused on their goals of going to state. Reeder is the fastest girls’ varsity runner, and Jackson Porter is the fastest boys’ varsity runner.  

Overall, it has been a great season for Eagle High’s cross country team so far. Sixty-one athletes achieved a personal record in just the first race. The team will hopefully continue to excel and improve.