This Saturday we had 17 (14 of eligible ages for WP selection) of our youngsters compete at the Cape Metro Schools Cross Country Champs.
We start with the euphoria of two 2nd places. Sama and Chanel (u12 and u11 girls respectively) put in phenomenal performances to not just qualify for the WP team (top 6 places) but take 2nd place, within touching distance of the win. Sama upgraded for 3rd place from last year and Chanel enjoyed a meteoric rise from not qualifying for the team last year.
There is always the unlucky, who work just as hard but who the cookie crumbles differently for. To Rebecca, Georgia, Abi and Megan who came 7th, 8th, 10th and 10th in their respective age groups, we know that you have the talent to be in the top 6 places, and perhaps this position will turn out to be a great motivating factor looking back from all the successes you will achieve in years to come.
And to the others whether you were sick or overwhelmed by the shirt of stronger competition - It's all a learning experience, and we love to watch you fight for every place.
Finally, we end with the euphoric again...Congrats to Carolyn and Tide who finished 1st and 2nd girl home in the u9 race. Although the u9 aren't eligible for WP colours, it's really exciting to see the talent lying in wait for us next year.
We are so very proud of every single athlete of ours who gave their all on Saturday, and the pieces are in place for a massive 2019 cross country season. Good luck to Sama and Chanel as they Fly the Off the Mark flag at WP Champs and Western Cape Schools Cross Country Champs on the next two weekends.
Proud coach signing off
Sean