Running into alternative opportunities

Senior+Katie+Vorpe+and+other+girls+cross+country+runners+ran+through+creeks+and+mud+at+the+Bellbrook+Invitational+Meet.+More+than+five+runners+fell+into+the+creek+while+running%2C+make+it+one+of+the+most+difficult+courses.+

Hayley Kennedy

Senior Katie Vorpe and other girls cross country runners ran through creeks and mud at the Bellbrook Invitational Meet. More than five runners fell into the creek while running, make it one of the most difficult courses.

Cross country only lasts a season, but running does not have to. This year, and similarly in the past, the girls cross country season lasted from Aug. to Oct., with summer conditioning beginning in June.

Despite the cross country season ending, the girls’ running habits did not. Sophomore Jodie Lawson said, “I did winter track to stay in shape because I put in so much work from June to October I couldn’t just throw that away.”

Other girls chose winter track, but for different reasons. Junior Allison Kossen said, “I really like winter track even though everyone bad mouths it. They say it’s basically torture but I last I checked getting to run with your friends isn’t in the torture handbook!”

On Wednesday Feb. 17 after school there will be a meeting for outdoor, spring track. A large portion of the indoor winter track runners will continue running into the spring, joined by runners who took a break during the winter weeks.

For those girls cross country runners who chose not to participate in indoor track, running club is another option. The club meets on Mon., Wed. and Thurs. Coach Pottebaum is the supervisor, however the girls are free to choose their workouts for the day.

Senior Rachel Haupt said, “I loved cross country and did not want to just stop running, but indoor track just wasn’t calling my name. Running club was a good alternative- not too much of a commitment but still quality exercise.”

Whether they are on the cross country, indoor winter track or outdoor spring track team or a member of running club, the girls always make time to run since it is what they love to do.