My journey of cross-country in the first semester

As I stood at the edge of Lake Forest Academy’s sprawling green field, my decision was clear: cross-country would be my fall sport. Unlike soccer or golf, where I felt less adept, running seemed like my stronghold. Drawn to the challenge of cross-country, known for its physical and mental demands, I was ready to test my limits.

Upon my arrival, I was immediately struck by the formidable athleticism of my peers. These athletes, embodiments of fitness and speed, were way faster than I had anticipated. My first 5km time was a modest 24 minutes and 50 seconds, a stark contrast to our team’s fastest runner who finished in under 19 minutes. This vast gap between us felt like a towering wall, one I was determined to scale. It was then I set an ambitious goal: to run 5 kilometers in under 17 minutes by my senior year.

I approached this challenge with a strategy of gradual improvement. If I could hit 22 minutes this season, then 19:30 the next, followed by 18 minutes, I could ultimately achieve my target of 17 minutes. My training regimen intensified; each practice was an opportunity to push my boundaries, my lungs burning and legs aching with every stride. The first official 5km meet on September 6th was a litmus test of my progress, where I aimed for under 24 minutes. Falling short by a mere second, I was nonetheless encouraged by my near-success, my efforts nearly coming to fruition.

The following weeks were a testament to hard work and mental fortitude. I shaved off nearly 40 seconds in one week, then 35 seconds after 10 days, and 34 seconds shortly thereafter. When I clocked 22:14, my goal seemed tantalizingly within reach, needing just a 15-second improvement.

However, life is often unpredictable. On the day of the last 5km meet, my physical condition faltered, and I was unable to participate. The disappointment was acute, knowing I was on the brink of a breakthrough. This setback, though disheartening, couldn’t overshadow the broader journey.

Throughout the season, my experience transcended just beating the clock. I forged enduring friendships, particularly with a skilled Chinese runner who became a close companion, and with my American teammates, who, despite being slower, showed remarkable dedication. Our shared experiences, laughter, and conversations during runs deepened these bonds. These friendships, built in the crucible of shared challenges, became a significant part of my journey.

In reflection, my time at Lake Forest Academy’s cross-country team was more than a pursuit of athletic excellence; it was a journey of resilience, camaraderie, and learning to navigate both triumphs and setbacks. Though I didn’t reach my exact goal, the lessons learned and friendships forged have left an indelible mark, propelling me forward in more ways than one.