As junior Kaitlyn Collier crosses the finish line, she can’t help but smile knowing that she had done her best and ran a good race. The girls cross-country team competed in the conference meet Oct. 30, which was held at Rogers High School.

Though they have not raced in two weeks the runners were still prepared and ready to go.

“During those two weeks we train harder than we would on race week,” said junior Abbey Foreman.

Carb loading is a key factor in a cross-country runner’s preparations.

“We have a pasta party two days before our races to carb load, and that’s just to get us ready for our race and make sure we are eating right,” said Collier.

The runners have to run intervals and hit certain times. Other days they do long runs that range from five to six miles to maintain their personal best. However, for Foreman it’s about beating her sibling’s personal best.

“I think my biggest goal is to get better than my sister’s time which is under 20 minutes,” said Foreman. “I haven’t met it yet, but hopefully at state.”

Prepping right before the game is especially important for athletes. They have to stretch or else they are in danger of pulling a muscle.

“We always go on a warm-up run,” said junior Ali Ezell. “We stretch and put our spikes on and pray with our coach.”

To run cross country, students not only have to be physically prepared, but they have to be mentally prepared as well.

“Not only are you challenged physically, but you are also challenged mentally,” said Collier.

For some athletes their pregame rituals are an important factor in mentally preparing them for the race.

“I pray with my team, listen to music, and just relax,” said Foreman.

While athletes run that last mile, they might need a final push to cross the finish line.

“Mainly for me it’s trying to beat my personal best,” said Ezell.

Although Foreman placed 20th on Oct. 30, she believes that she can do better.

“I was pleased but there is still room for improvement time wise,” said Foreman.