Saltillo XC

Last weekend, Russ and I traveled a few minutes south to the big town of Saltillo to watch two of our nieces run in a cross country meet. It was apparently a big to-do....1200 runners I think Roan said. Of course, we were also in dire need of visiting with Russ's brother and sister-in-law. So, we woke up early. Yes, on a Saturday, we left the house a little after 8 to see the girls run.

Roan's mom, Russ's dad, and Russ

Roan's parents were there as they often are, and Russ and I enjoyed visiting with them as always. Russ's parents also drove up for the race. It was such a beautifully HOT day! Last year when the girls ran this race, it was so muddy that most of the runners had to crawl up the last hill to keep from sliding down it! So, we were thankful for the sunshine!

I, being a non-runner these days, enjoy two parts of these races (well...actually 3!). I love to watch them all line up as the race is getting ready to begin. The teams all stand together side by side with the next team. Some pray, chant, dance, etc. to get "hyped" up. Then, they all take off running when the race starts...funneling into a line of organized and paced runners. It's just fun to watch.

Of course, I also love to watch as our nieces or nephew run past us. We cheer them on and watch for the next one to come through.

Then, I really am entertained watching the finish line. Have you ever been to a cross country meet? If not, you should. If only to watch the finishers. There are a few fascinating parts of this finish line that I enjoy or find myself watching out of fascination. First of all, as pictured above, I love to watch when two runners are running side by side and sprint to the finish line to be sure to finish first. Catherine, the Spartan above, is sprinting with one of our Corinth girls to the finish. There is a picture to prove that the Spartan did in fact cross first, but there was quite the discussion and a bit of shoving after crossing the line. The Spartan was put in her appropriate place...in front. But, it was entertaining nonetheless. I also find it fascinating to watch the finish line, AKA the "puke shoot." I know. Gross! But, it's just so interesting to watch these runners who have given ALL they have and run their hardest finish with such a bang. Some are so limp they need assistance walking any further. Some fall down. And some just toss their cookies. Well...I'm sure it wasn't cookies they had for breakfast. But you get the picture. However, it should be noted that Olivia and Julie always look like they could run another race after they finish! They are so conditioned! Amazing to me! So, I believe Julie finished 8th and Olivia wasn't far behind out of 120 varsity runners in the "smaller schools" division. Great job girls!

Leah and Russ's dad

After the race, we all spent some time at the tent visiting and enjoying the remaining races.

Roan and Sam

Roan, who was standing in as coach, finally had a chance to sit and relax. Well, I'm not sure she ever gets to relax. But, she did get to sit!

Olivia, me, and Julie

We congratulated the girls, then put the chairs, coolers, food, and tents away before heading inside for the awards.

Jimmy and Russ

The Spartans were recognized at this particular race. That varies from race to race since they are "unattached" runners. The Spartan XC team is a group of homeschool families that organized this sport themselves. Some for the competition and some for the fitness. We watched as Julie went up front to receive her t-shirt for finishing in the top 20!

Congratulations Olivia and Julie for running such a great race! We are always proud of you!