On Oct. 29th, the girls’ varsity cross country team secured a win on senior day, beating Branson by 13 and Tamalpais (Tam) High School by 15 points in their home meet at the College of Marin Indian Valley Campus.
Three Giants placed in the top five racers. The first to cross the finish line was junior Sydney Middleton, with a time of 18.29 seconds. Less than a second later, sophomore Kate Kozubic finished, followed by the fifth Redwood racer to cross, freshman Rose Mueller.
Even though she placed in the top five, Mueller said that the course still faced her with challenges.
“The first two miles were pretty hard with the uphills, but then the last mile was the hardest because there were a couple of Branson girls ahead of me, but I kicked [and sprinted at the end of a race] which helped me pull ahead,” Mueller said.
The team showed their continuity and appreciation of their seniors by making memorable signs. Middleton commented on the team and the environment that cross country has brought to her.
“This is such a great team [with] such a good dynamic. Everyone is in it for one another. One of my best friends, who I run with every single practice, Marley [Nacco], is a senior and this is her last league meet. I am going to be sad to see her go, but I know we have a great group,” Middleton said.
Over the season, the groups of girls have made connections with one another, which has translated into success. Kozubic comments on the departure of seniors and how this will affect the team.
“I love the seniors. They are my favorite people, and I am going to miss the seniors so much next year.” Kozubic said.
While preparing for this race, they formed a circle and performed their ritual cheer; Mueller commented on how this has helped her prepare.
“Before the race, everyone hypes each other up and brings the energy, especially with our cheer that we do altogether. It helps us prepare and get ready to race,” Mueller said.
This was the last league race for the varsity girls’ cross country runners until their next Marin County Athletic League (MCAL) race, which will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 13th, at the College of Marin Indian Valley Campus.
