The Van-Far Cross-Country team was both excited and determined when they got to the Class 2, District 3 meet. The cool fall air made everyone in the mood for a day of tough racing.
Everyone on the team was looking at Garrett Hopke, who was the best runner this year and had already made a name for himself by making it to the state meet the year before.
Garrett quickly found his rhythm as the race started. There was no doubt that he had trained hard because his steps were strong and steady.
With its mix of hills and flat sections, the race was tough, but Garrett ran it with the skill and confidence of a seasoned pro. The support from his friends made him even more determined. Garrett worked harder every mile and kept his mind on the task at hand.
When he got to the last stretch, he could see the finish line and the timer going off. He raced to the finish line with all of his strength, and his time meant that he would once again be state champion.
At the same time, Slade was making a name for himself by finishing his first Cross Country season. Slade finished his season on a high note by setting a personal record, even though he didn’t reach his main goal.
He came in 33rd out of 155 runners, just missing the cut for state qualification, which needed a place in the top 30. His play showed how hard he had worked and how much he could improve for future seasons with the team.
“Our motto this year was small but mighty,” Coach Cross said as he thought back on the season. It’s so much fun to run with these kids.
Garrett is going to run for state next weekend. Slade missed by three people, but he set a new record by two seconds, which is pretty good for his first year. Khloe had a tough year, but whenever she’s fit, other teams better watch out. For the past three years, Erin has been a great leader.
She works so hard at running, but unfortunately, that doesn’t always pay off the way you’d like. All four of you, thanks for a great season!”
The Van-Far team cheered loudly to celebrate Garrett’s amazing accomplishment and Slade’s great finish. The whole team and school were proud when Garrett made it to the state meet for the second year in a row.
Garrett is now focused on the state meet, which took place last Saturday, November 9, at Gans Creek in Columbia.
With last year’s state meet under his belt, Garrett is better than ever ready to race against the state’s best runners. The whole community of Van-Far is behind him and can’t wait for another great show.