SFHS Cross Country Team Competes in All-West Region Footlocker Race

On Thursday December 2, 2010, the Spanish Fork High School Cross Country team left for California, where they ran the All-West Region Footlocker Race at Mt. San Antonio College. The SFHS Cross Country team shared a charter bus with two other high schools, Salem Hills and Springville. The bus ride was long and arduous; however, it was merely an obstacle in the way of the ultimate goal of racing in the All-West Region Footlocker race. It is a privilege and an honor to compete in the race. Runners from across the country come to participate. The race, itself, is about 3 miles and consists of rough switchbacks, steep climbs, and gradual hills that seem to never end. Spanish Fork High School was well represented, as each athlete gave their all throughout the race. Those who went were Tyler Galt, Fausto Guerrero, Allison Hallam, Tanner Runolfsen, David Smiley, Chris Harreld, Sammy Hatfield, Ben Rosenbaum, and Madison Hanson, along with their coach, Amanda Merrill. Although some of their members were injured, they went about cheering on their fellow teammates and encouraging them to run faster, instead of running in the race. Everyone did their best and finished the race. While the main purpose of the trip to California was the race, the SFHS Cross Country did enjoy other activities like going to Balboa Beach and Disneyland. At Balboa Beach, on Friday, it was cool and refreshing as each athlete relaxed from a morning of registration and course warm-ups. Whether it was playing ultimate Frisbee or searching for seashells on the sandy beach, everyone had a great time. The frigid air didn’t stop people from hurtling themselves straight into the icy water of the ocean; and, even the coaches helped themselves to some fun in the sun. After the race on Saturday, the Cross Country teams all went to Disneyland. It was very busy, but that didn’t stop the SFHS Cross Country from having a good time. As one big group, they stalked the park for rides and souvenirs. Their fun ended at the park when they had to leave at quarter to Midnight for the hotel. The next morning was spent driving home. They arrived Sunday night in the Shopko parking lot, where parents waited to take them home. The All-West Region Footlocker race was the last race the Spanish Fork High School Cross Country team would run this year. It was difficult, but in the end, it was one of the best experiences they ever had the opportunity of participating in.