Ready, set, go! Harriton’s indoor track is in full swing. You have probably seen them running through the hallways after school (when it is particularly chilly) or doing an insane workout on the track. Maybe you stopped to watch them, and laughed, grateful that you weren’t in their shoes. They have been running every day after school for nearly two months, preparing for their Friday-night (girls) and Saturday-morning (boys) meets. These meets can only take place at indoor tracks, the closest being Haverford College and Lehigh University. It seems like their hard work has been paying off.

Everyone on the distance team has remained strong, focused, and fast after the graduation of Max Norris, a previous captain of the boys’ team and an All-American athlete and state champion. Harriton’s Cross Country team proved that they can’t be overlooked after a 6^th place overall finish at the Central League Championships for the boys, and a 3^rd place finish by the girls. These two teams have continued their hard work and perseverance on the track. The sprint team has also been working extremely hard. Last Friday, the girl’s 4×4 relay placed first in their heat at a meet at Lehigh. This relay team consisted of runners Akosua Mante, Lauren Mendelsohn, Laura Lasprogata, and Ashley Wint. When Mante, a sophomore, was asked her favorite thing about track she replied, “Feeling the fresh, cool air on my face.” If that’s not motivation to do track, I don’t know what is. When I spoke to Coach Oden, a Welsh Valley school counselor, about his expectations for his team he said, “I hope everyone can reach their full potential.”

These runners have proven that they have the drive and desire to do just that. Good job track, and keep up the good work!