In the world of cross-country running, it’s easy to assume that it’s all about putting one foot in front of the other. However, the sport is a complex tapestry of physical and mental challenges where athletes test their limits and push themselves to achieve remarkable feats.
Leo Lomugdang, a senior varsity cross-country runner, said, “Cross country has a real physical toll on your body.” The toll is not limited to race days alone but is a daily struggle that demands unwavering commitment. As Lomugdang puts it, “having to commit yourself every day” is a significant part of the athlete’s journey.
“having to commit yourself every day”
However, the mental aspect of cross country is where the sport truly separates the extraordinary from the ordinary. Lomugdang acknowledged the solitary nature of long runs, stating, “It is really tough mentally if you’re by yourself.” Running alone requires mental resilience as athletes grapple with self-doubt and push themselves to continue.
Likewise, Allie Harman, a sophomore varsity cross-country runner, emphasized the importance of body awareness during the arduous races. “I really pay attention to how my body feels throughout running,” highlighting the need for constant self-assessment to perform at one’s best. But the biggest factor in success is consistency.
“Consistency is key,” Lomugdang observed. The daily grind, the persistent training, and the ability to show up and give your best each day contribute to long-term success in cross country.
However, running is not just an individual endeavor. “There’s people around you that are pushing you to keep running,” said Anderson Wang, a sophomore varsity runner here at Rocklin high school. Wang said that it’s a reminder that even during the most challenging moments, cross-country runners are part of a team, drawing strength and motivation from their peers. But the biggest factor in success is consistency.
Moreover, the relentless nature of cross country is evident as Wang points out that In cross country, there are no time-outs or substitutions. Runners must keep going, regardless of their physical or mental hurdles.
Wang, a sophomore varsity runner, said, “Every runner faces the challenge of giving up, and everyone has different strategies for overcoming that. Personally, I’ll just keep my eye on the person in front of me.”
