Cross country: work, race, repeat!

No bench, no half time, no timeouts, welcome to the world of cross country. This sport is not just a test on endurance, but also a challenge mentally. While runners race on their own, the support of teammates is what makes this sport unique. Beyond the physical demands, running teaches lessons far beyond the course.

This fall, the Brecksville Broadview Heights cross county team has had an impressive start to the season. With each race, athletes have showcased their hard work and dedication to the sport. Runners are constantly getting new personal records, reflecting their commitment to improvement. 

Unlike many other sports, cross country races are run without the help of others. Yet, the sport emphasizes team camaraderie. Many members on the team note they love ‘Pasta dinners’. This is every week on Thursday when seniors help host the team at their house. These parties consist of dinner, games, and plenty of time to spend socializing with others on the team. 

Anna Zumwalt, a Junior, says, “You race on your own, it is your own thing, but the team is very supportive. No matter if you are the best runner or worst runner, they still cheer for you.” 

The bond between cross country members is like no other. Freshman, Shreyas Mahalaha adds, “The upperclassmen have been such good role models, and good people I look up to.”

Cross country practice at BBHHS is typically held Monday through Friday. The week starts with a long run on the towpath. “Monday long runs are a nice way to start the week, it is a light run and it is nice to talk with others,” says junior Sydney Speeth, 

On Tuesday the team takes part in the hardest workout of the week, which varies each time. Wednesday is a crucial recovery for the team. Instead of running, the team does yoga and swims. “Wednesday is such a chill day and it’s a very good recovery from the workouts in the week,” says Senior Gabe Krenisky. 

On Thursday, there is yet another workout. However, this time the workout is not as intense. To finish the week, the team has a light 30 minute jog around the field. Senior Kendall Brown says, “Friday runs are my favorite because it is a half hour and a reminder that the week is over.” 

Cross country meets can be exhausting and stressful for runners. The meets last many hours as hundreds of people run. “Sometimes, you can be very nervous and you hate it, but then it becomes more fun and you like to get it over with,” says Speeth. 

While many runners feel pressure during races, sophomore John Dulay states, “The meets are my favorite to see how much you improved during the week.” 

Sophomore Amy Tytko agrees, “Races bring out the nice competitive edge in me.” Overall, meets can bring a ton of excitement and a nice opportunity to bond with teammates, even though it can bring a lot of stress to perform well. 

Many people don’t know much about cross country and often assume it is ‘just running’, but for cross country members, the sport is a lot more.  “The sport can help you so much in ways you don’t know it,” says Zumwalt.

Cross country helps teach self care. Many techniques learned in cross country help benefit other sports. However, junior Thomas Russell says,  “I wish people knew that this sport is not a lack sport.” 

Although cross country can be a lot of work and not easy at first, freshman Caleb Kruzyk says, “It gets easier the more you do it!”  

Cross country demands commitment, requiring time and effort. Senior Gabe Krenisky jokes,  “Many people call it a cult; while it might seem that way, cross country is fun and filled with fun people.

Initially many people are drawn away from cross country because of how challenging and boring it might be. 

Sophomore Cate Gutridge admits, “At first I didn’t want to be here, but now I love it and look forward to coming to practice,” she says. Despite its challenges, cross country becomes more enjoyable as athletes learn how to ‘embrace the grind’. 

With a strong start to the season and much more ahead, the Brecksville Broadview Heights cross country team is excited to see what the rest of the season will bring. 

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