Ever since I heard about the prestigious race known as Foot Locker Nationals, I wished that I could one day race on the hilly course against the top runners in the nation.

I came into my senior year with a 15:33 and had a lot of time that needed to be dropped. I knew that by the time South Regionals came around I would need to be as close to breaking 15:00 as possible, and a 15:10 did the trick along with one drop out. I had never been to California but it far exceeded my expectations.

When I arrived at the Hotel De Coronado late Friday night/Saturday morning I had one thing on my mind: SLEEP! Only 10 hours from the starting gunshot and I was suffering from mild jet lag and shortage of sleep. I managed to settle down from my excitement and rest for the race, which felt like it was a long time away.

Morning came and so did my usual race preparations of stretching, hydrating, etc., but also familiarizing myself with the course that was completely new to me. Running the first of two laps, near last place, I became aware of the terrain and difficulty that the course held for me. The second lap was much more painful and after I crossed the finish line in 39th place with a 16:27, I could finally say that I was a Foot Locker National Finalist. Later that day the South team found out that we had won the meet for the first time ever, and it felt great to be part of the champion team.

The San Diego course was one of the hardest courses that I have ever run, but it was also one of the greatest experiences of my life.

I ran against the fastest kids in the nation and gave it my all. I had an amazing time meeting and hanging out with the other runners; they treated me like family and helped me out with any questions I had.

I brought a lot home with me from my trip to Nationals, but I mainly brought back an unforgettable memory of the greatest race I have run so far. Every high school runner should strive to run in the Foot Locker Cross Country Championships and prove their abilities. I am grateful for my opportunity and everyone who supported me throughout the years. I can't think of a better way to end my senior year of Cross Country.

Go South Team!