On the cold winter day of Oct. 30, 11 stellar Emery runners set out for Waco, Texas to compete in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) Cross Country State Championships.

The anticipated state championships follow a glorious season for the team with numerous top-20 performances from runners over seven meets. The cross-country season is everything but easy and relaxing for the runners. For three months, they wake up at the crack of dawn, drive to Emery or another location, run demanding amounts, and then quickly get ready to attend all of their classes. For many at Emery, their practice schedule appears daunting and difficult; however, those on the team love and appreciate the bonds made with each other while watching the sunrise dripping in sweat and unthinkably sore. 

The team ventured out to Waco for the state championship game the evening before the state championships. They stayed at a rented house and had one huge slumber party, made dinner and cookies, and simply talked and joked with one another about anything and everything. Senior runner Audrey Hochglaube notes that this night was “filled with super memorable moments.”

The next morning the team woke up and headed to the course where they were met with 30 F temperatures and heavy winds– less than ideal conditions for a run. Nonetheless, Hochglaube placed 40th individually after putting up a stellar time of 14 minutes, and 17 seconds. Senior runner Cortney Murray remarks, “While the sport is individual, this year, with the help of Coach Williamson, we have learned that we are still able to be a team by looking out for each other on and off the course.” This partnership within the team prevailed as they ran incredibly fast times, landing 20th in team scores for the girls, and 20th for the boys. 

The season may be over for this tight-knit and hyper-athletic team, but their impressive results and astounding connections will last them a lifetime.