Regional Cross Country

An adventure that was anything but a simple jog in the park 

Today I'd like to share the story of our recent cross country running event in Gundagai Racecourse - an adventure that was anything but a simple walk in the park.

Our journey began... late. Not because of traffic, not because we forgot something — but because someone, who shall remain nameless (but definitely owes us all breakfast), decided to sleep in. So, with some further wait time and after a final dash to the loo, we eventually hit the road.

Then came the fog. Thick, blinding, ominous fog — the kind you see in mystery movies when someone disappears. It slowed our trip and made the roads unsafe, which could have meant even more delays but thankfully the Gods were looking out for us and the path was clear. When we finally arrived, after taking directions from Noah who knew the way, the fog still hadn’t lifted. In fact, it stuck around like an awkward guest at a party — until 1pm! And then the sun finally shone down.

The course itself was... unique. Think of it less like a track, and more like a paddock. The ground was uneven from cattle grazing, and yes — there were actual cows. Watching. Judging. And let’s not forget the cow dung — scattered across the course like landmines, just waiting for someone to misstep. Cross country became more like Obstacle Course: Farm Edition.

And then there was the weather. In the morning, it was freezing. Picture - coaxing frozen runners to peel off their hoodies and brave the cold in shorts and singlets.- beanies remained unremoved. Lollies were an unworthy bribe. Then, hours later when finally the sun came out, no coaxing required, just me walking back and forth with jackets/ jumpers from the last minute dumping before the race began . 

One of the most memorable moments was on the home stretch, when one of our runners, Dan, exhausted and sore, fell to the ground. Another student — without hesitation — rushed to help, showing true mateship and sportsmanship. I had made a mental note to thank that particular student and let the school know what a caring person they had,  not realising it was one of our own, thanks Huxley. That’s what cross country is all about: not just speed, but support.

And again showing  support, all students  - Noah, Huxley, Dan, Josef, Zavier, Milla, Ella, Bellah, Jed, Sienna stood along the track and cheered for Alice as she made it to the finish line. That’s what cross country is all about: not just speed, but support.

An amazing effort from the students - the top 10 runners were recorded, with the top 8 going to state x country. Our place getters

Noah 6th, Zavier 8th, Sienna 4th automatically in for State week 1 of next term.

Ella 9th and Jed 9th are both reserves. Ella is waiting on further instructions but feel confident she will be asked to take the place of another runner who will not be going.

Josef - 14th, Dan 15th, Huxley 16th, Bellah 16th, Milla 18th, Alice 18th   -  well done to all.

And finally, the best part of the day? McDonald's. That golden-arched reward. We were tired, hungry and ready to listen to Ella Dawgs phone tunes all the way home.

Thank you to everyone who ran, supported, and made the most of the mud, cows, and fog.

Mrs Priscilla O'Mahoney