There is a specific smell to late August. It’s a mix of cut grass, humidity, and for a high school cross country coach, a cocktail of anxiety and teen spirit. The first day of practice is the great equalizer. You look out at the group and you see the full spectrum: the varsity veteran who…
I’ll never forget the kid who showed up to practice sophomore year announcing he’d run 60 miles that week because “that’s what David Rudisha (800m world record holder) did when he was my age.” By the of September, he was sidelined with overuse injuries. His fall season? Gone. His ability to help his teammates win…
Summer road races are lots of fun, but heat stroke is deadly serious. High temperatures and humidity increase the risk of heat-related illness or death among runners. Masters runners are especially susceptible. It’s important to practice prevention, recognize the danger signs, and be good to yourself when racing in the heat. Surprisingly, the risks of heat stroke or…
I’ve participated in two road races where a runner has died on the course. Their tragic and unexpected deaths shocked everyone. Both runners were regulars on the local racing circuit. On both days the temperatures had climbed well past 90º F during the race. Runners feel a certain degree of invincibility earned through healthy living and regular workouts. But, when…
As preseason training for high school cross country begins, many athletes have questions. Read on to see answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about preseason training for cross country.
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