Cross-country; Probably one of the most overlooked sports at Lincoln High School. (Besides girls’ golf.) Most people have no idea how much there is to it. How much more there really is other than a whole bunch of people running.

Cross-country teams go to many invitationals and compete for there schools. A lot of time and effort is put into preparing for these races. Runners have to train and condition. They meet after school with Coach Stocks for practice. They have to be in shape and physically fit.

But unlike your average sports, Cross-country takes more than being physically fit. It takes a lot of mental training and focus. “When I run, I don’t focus on anything around me,” Cross-country athlete Charles Hauff says “except for my form and the finish line.”

One of the most recent races was at the Bret Harte Invitational at Angels Camp. When the Varsity boys crossed over the finish line, Kyle Knutson placed 10th at 17:37 and Nathan Simpson ended in 23rd with the time 18:32. Both Lincoln High runners received medals that were obviously deserved. Charles Hauff was the next Lincoln runner to finish. He ended wit the time 19:11. He placed 42nd.

The Varsity girls then had their turn to race. Kelsey Croall placed 6th out of 89 runners. She received a medal for her excellent job. Kelli Wiswell placed 77th out of 97b in a 2-mile race.

Every athlete who is planning on doing well in Cross-country has to be dedicated and committed to the team. They need to have more than strong legs and good posture. They must have the desire to run, and the attitude to keep them going.

All runners are doing well this season. The next event they will be attending is the Bella Vista Bronco Invite. It will be held at Folsom High School on October 16, 2004 at 8:00 a.m.