Today I ran smack dab into the Keller High School Cross Country Team. I'll bet there were 20 of them- guys and girls. They had just started, I think, because they were all in a clump. It doesn't take long for them to spread out. It is always the same - 3-4 boys without shirts in front, followed by 3-4 thin girls. After that is a larger mixed group of girls and guys, then there are the straggles. I love to see them out early running while it is still summer. They are rare among their peers.
I have a theory: Cross country runners are smart. It was true at my kids' school and I'll bet is is true everywhere. What it takes to be a good runner is that same that it takes to be a good student.
Discipline - These kids have to run early and long - even when it is hot. You can't cheat on weekly mileage or it will ruin your races. Same with studying - those kids have to study long and hard even when everyone else is out having fun.
No crowd needed - Runners have to run many hours and miles by themselves, when no one knows or is around. Same with good students. - they spend much time by themselves studying and pursuing knowledge/good grades.
Tactical - Runners continually check their watches, and their pace. They have a plan pace per mile and when to accelerate to run their best race. It takes brains to calculate and keep up all that while running. Similarly good students constantly know their grade average and what grade they need to keep their grade point and class rank.
Not on TV - Only once every 4 years do we watch runners on tv. Same with cross country - maybe the district or state meets attract attention, but most of their races are run during the school day. No one is there but their parents and coaches. You don't even have to pay to watch their events. Same with good students - no one watches them take big tests. No spectators at ACT, SAT, or AP Tests - where they shine. Exception is the Spelling Bee on ESPN.
It is a lifelong pursuit - Runners don't have to quit when they get 30. They can continue their sport their whole life. Good students are life long learners no matter what field they enter.
Another thing I love about Cross Country - there are no cuts. Everyone can be on the team. Everyone can win their race, not by coming in first, but by improving their own time.
What is not to love about this sport?
TVW
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