Cross country is a sport that is not only beneficial to all involved, but also fun for those who enjoy running. The cross country season began in August and runners have been excited to be return to the race courses ever since. Though everyone was allowed back on the courses, there have been many changes due to the current pandemic. Mr. Genrich, the head coach of the Harrisburg Cross Country team, stated, “The state and our district have put in precautions to try and prevent contact with Covid.” Some of the precautions involved in practices and events included summer camps limited to smaller numbers of team personnel, widening of the courses, no award ceremonies, and no water stations at races. Josiah Schaeffer, a senior cross country athlete for Harrisburg, explained that the athletes get their temps taken before each practice. If an athlete would have a temp higher than 100 degrees, that person would be sent home to avoid the possible spread of the virus. Though these changes be slightly burdensome, they have been necessary to maintain a full season. The team members agree the extra steps were worth it to be able to run and compete.
Josie Pearson, a senior that has run cross country all throughout high school, discussed the many benefits that she’s gained from participating in this sport. Pearson, along with many other runners, was able to meet new friends and learn the meaning of teamwork. Some of the health benefits from taking part in aerobic exercise include mental toughness, core strength, improved cardiovascular health, and a strengthened immune system. The team just finished up their State races in Rapid City on October 24th with the following results:
HHS Girls’ Team:
- Carolyn Haar – 22nd place
- Ella Parks – 52nd
- Amarise Okken – 69th
- Gabbie Ahrendt – 70th
- Kendra Hoffmann – 72nd
- Brooke Gorman – 86th
- Presli White – 114th
- Team – 9th
HHS Boys’ Team:
- Parker Fitzgerald – 17th – All-State recipient
- Cashton Johnson – 19th
- Soren Weeg – 35th
- Trecy Hallman – 50th
- Gavin Smith – 72nd
- Ben Bruning – 78th
- Andrew Jensen – 89th
- Team – 6th