By Anna Hedgpeth

Reporter

The girls cross country team wrapped up their season on November 5 at the state meet in Jefferson City.

The team works all season in anticipation of the state meet. Juniors Tori Findley and Danielle Hotalling finished second and eight, earning All-State titles, and the team as a whole finished fifth. The team consisted of seven runners, all of whom work year-round to become better runners.

“Running at state is definitely something I don’t take for granted. I was really happy with how I raced and felt excited crossing the finish line alongside my teammates.” Hotalling said.

Findley wanted to rank higher at state this year than last year, when she placed third. She is happy with her second-place finish.

“It was a little hard not to be disappointed at first, but I am super happy with my finish. I accomplished my goal of finishing higher than last year, so it’s hard not to be happy.” Findley said.

Hotalling thanked her teammates and her coaches for helping her this season.

“I’m super proud of my team and all their hard work that they put in this year and the coaches’ constant encouragement throughout the season.” Hotalling said.

A number of the girls went to Nike regionals, an optional meet that runners can pay to compete in, last weekend in Indiana. Findley took 13th place overall.

“I like Nike regionals mainly because there’s no pressure on this meet. We just get to get out and have a chance to run fast.” Junior Emma Bassford said.

Hotalling and Findley were named All-Metro 1st Team with Findley earning the title of Kansas City Runner of the Year. She is now planning on working toward improvement in the off-season.

“I’m still deciding what I’m going to do in the off-season, but no matter what I’ll keep running and try to stay as fit as I can.” Findley said.

After a couple weeks off, the team will run together every day after school at the Polar Bear Running Club. They are looking forward to track season when they will get to compete again.