CCCNYM

 

 

Hunter got invited to the CCCNYM at the State meet for Cross Country. I was very hesitant to let him run just because this race was the week before AAU National meet--we have no time for injuries. It's been major practice mode around here, Hunter has been training with the HS CC team and its been so different in a lot of ways. Since Oct 27, he has been on a major training schedule. 8-10 miles a day and let me tell you, I have cried watching how much this is paying off. The leg turn over, times, breathing, confidence and learning level has been out of this world different!

 

The meet was at EP Tom Sawyer Park--HATE this park--we were scheduled to run here 3 times this year and it poured, like flooded each time we were there. Today, its was just cold as all get out--I was in layers, unlike my poor child. He HATES to wear clothing when running.

 

Coach Jelks and Coach Stevens make the drive from Bowling Green to watch him (Tab and Braelyn) run.  This was the first time that they have seen him run in person and not just follow him on Milesplit. I was very nervous---it was like my child was getting scouted! Not ready for that!!

 

 

Trying to stay warm and have a little fun while waiting---these kids just don't seem to enjoy a friendly game of whiffle ball like when I was younger.

 

Let me tell you about Tabitha. She is SO my child from another mother!!  Hunter and her could SO be brother and sister--they fight, act, play, etc. like they are. LOVE their relationship they have and know that it will be one for life. Its like they are twins--they have logged so many miles together and have that competitive  push for one another that they each need.

Hunter has gotten into this habit of giving me a play by play of his race after he has decompressed. I have not asked for this and have tried to video tape this many times but always get caught. I asked him to write this down, to look back on and share with Coach Tally. It made me cry--so grown up and mature in so many ways.

 

Hunter PR on this course!!! 11:04:28 and came in 14th over all!! I was in tears--this was the most emotional race that I ever watched--it all paid off.

Coach Tally really knows what he is doing and has a totally different approach to coaching. It still is hard to get used to--Coach Smith (his MS CC coach) is all about joking and having fun--if you do well its an added bonus. Coach Tally--total opposite-he is driven, smart, determined and has literally written a work out plan for each child after doing much studying on Mile Spilt. I have had to learn to totally trust this Coach and his ways.  Hunter started off this race LAST---this was SO HARD to see but was totally worth it. Hunters finish was so much better, he PR'd on (this is a killer course) and had to learn to listen to his body and find his pace. I am SO thankful that he (actually we) are given this chance to run and train with another coach!