Fight 'Til The End

Ladies,

Well, it's officially over. The 2015 season has come to a close with the results of today's Regional. It's bittersweet; both girls fought hard, but both fell short. Both should hold their heads high, because in truth, there was nothing else to do than what they did do - go out swinging. 

For Baili, there was a 50/50 chance going into it she could get out. It was a faster field, and with no known person to pace with, my final instructions were to run for position. She couldn't worry about pace or time, she simply had to gut out the hardest race of the year. It was that simple. For most of the race she hovered right around the 40 mark, but in the final mile the body shut down. 

I know it was crushing, but there was nothing to be ashamed of. Without a depth of running and racing experience it was not really possible for Baili to make the pace adjustments necessary to optimize her time, She was able to pace off Carrie for the bulk of the season, but without Carrie there was no way to reliably go about it. She had to race position, pure and simple. Even if she had been able to pace herself, she would have needed a significant drop in time to get out. It was simply too much to ask. No regrets.

Danielle fared much better. Her 22:34 was an all-time PR by 2 seconds and nearly 50 seconds better than her previous course PR. It was an outstanding day for her. Realistically there was never a chance for her to get out - that would have required at least a 2-minute drop (or more!) and that just couldn't happen. No, this was the best possible outcome for Danielle - a best time on a fine day, and a lot of momentum going into track and next season. We really couldn't have asked for more. 

That said, it's over now. Time to turn the page.

I talked to a few of you about off-season. Once again, let me say I would like all of you, after a rest, to stay active somehow. I will be training constantly, and you are always welcome, however let's remember it will be better if you girls who are not competing in other sports get together on a regular basis. I cannot meet individually with girls! Additionally, for girls running track, you should check with Coach Jo and Coach Amy regarding off-season training. You belong to them now!

Banquet is scheduled for November 2nd. I will try to have the yearbook ready by then!