Day 2 - 2021 Cross Country

From the first moment of practice today the coaching staff was impressed.  Every athlete even warmed up with a sense of purpose.  Much of our warmup routine requires running.  It was clearly evident you've taken it up a notch over last year.  But purposeful warmups don't necessarily translate to better race results.  Training runs do however, and there was a dramatic improvement over yesterday.  It's safe to say Group 1 led the way.  But among the top group were several others including Shane J., Shaine M., Ryan, Connor, McKenna and others.  In fact, McKenna was elated by her performance as you can see below.

I was also impressed by the Mod Squad, all of whom we know to be particularly fast in shorter distances, but are also willing to work very hard on building that base.  Nice job EVERYBODY.  Questions I received today . . . What do you have planned for tomorrow?  When is our Time Trial?  What must I do to join Group 1?  Who is going to Martha's Vineyard?  Even the questions reflect enthusiasm on your part.  No complaining, no unhappy faces during any segment of practice (warm up, training run, weight room.)  Just a pretty happy group of kids striving to improve.  A coach's dream!

As for my responses to the questions . . . It's the same response to 3; I don't know just yet, but you'll know soon enough.  As for the other, What must I do to join Group 1?  Keep doing what you're doing.  Arrive every day with a smile and give the best effort possible.  Consistency is a key to distance running.  Improvement comes naturally with consistency.

To summarize some of the topics covered today.  Newcomers, don't forget uniform money (or speak with me.)  Don't be a pest, but mention user fees to your parents (or speak with me.)  We covered, surges, which we'll work on.  The start of a race, which we'll work on.  Knowing the course, which you've been working on. And hydration, healthy eating, and mental preparation.  Your exam will take place when we hold the Time Trial later this week.  3K .  On our course.  We'll have training paces and specific group assignments shortly following completion of your "exam."  Don't worry.  You can't fail.  We'll be happy whatever the outcome.  Thanks for a great day.  See you at 2:30!

Requiescat in pace - C. W.