The Reason We Run

Cross country isn't just a sport. It's an addiction that no one understands besides us runners. We enjoy waking up at 6 in the morning and going on a run and coming home while everyone is just now getting up or is still asleep. We enjoy having our teammates by our side challenging and supporting us through every single step that we take. 

Running is a journey and something a lot of people don't get to experience. People think that we run for no reason or because we are insane. It is true that we are a little bit crazy, I mean what runner doesn't have a little bit of insanity in them, but not all runners run without a reason. 

I started running in the fourth grade because my mom was a marathon runner and running coach and I wanted to be just like her. My mom was a huge role model to me and when she passed away form cancer, I knew I had to keep running. Every step I take I know is another smile on my moms face. 

Other people have their reasons to run. Some people enjoy the environment cross country has. It is a sport where everyone from every team can encourage one another on or off the course. Other people run because it gives them an escape from reality. And some people honestly run for the heck of it. Either way, each and every single runner comes together despite of why they're even there and just runs.

It's an amazing sport that no one can understand unless your a runner and it's a sport that when you do run, you don't ever want to quit. 

Running has taught me so much over the past several years and it doesn't even matter when you start running. It could be in the fourth grade, It could be eighth grade, or even your sophomore year in high school. No matter when you started running, just know that the people who you run with are the same people you're going to remember when you're older. These people have played a large role in your life and they've become part of your family. 

- @anja_arlinghaus ( Anja Arlinghaus )