Lakota East sophomore, Dustin Horter, participated in and was highlighted in our Saucony Flo Summer Training Blog. Saucony Flo Summer Training Blog. We do not often have the opportunity to blog during the XC and track seasons, but Dustin has agreed to provide us with his thoughts on his races on a weekly basis throughout this season. In this, the eighth of the series, Dustin comments on his race in the West Chester Districts at the Voice of America Park course on 10/24/15. Dustin wonthe D1, Section 2 race in a time of 15:11.30, leading his team to qulaify for the Regional race in Troy this weekend.
Thoughts about the Race- District Championships at VOA 10/24/15
The day was damp and muggy with a heavy wind, but perfect conditions for running. Lakota East Varsity boys were to report to camp by 8:45 at VOA to get bib numbers and chips. The team seemed really hyped up for districts; not very nervous, but just in the zone. We warmed up a mile and a half and got back from that just in time to see the gun go off in the first race of the varsity guys. Birdsall ended up first, with a very nice race. Then it was our turn. The gun went off and I immediately bolted from the line. I knew that it would be safe for me to dart out in front of everyone and just stay relaxed and alone for as long as possible. Within 300 meters, I was 20 yards out from the other competitors. I had been in this situation before and was mentally and physically prepared. I like to think that when I am alone on the course, I am scrapping for every second I can get to decrease my PR time. I came through the first mile at another 4:40, then the two mile at a 9:39. This mirrors my pace from last week at the GMC meet exactly. It was also at VOA. My final time, a 15:11.3, was almost identical to the 15:11.0 I ran the week before. I finished and was a little frustrated that I did not reach my goal of 15:07 to take the school record, but never the less, I stood at the line to shake as many competitor's hands as I could. That kind of thing is more important to me than just the competing itself. It's not about me, it's about coming together as competitors and learning sportsmanship and for me, running to give God glory.
Special Moment of the Week: A couple of my friends ended up coming to the race this weekend and I think the whole running thing turned out to be more interesting to them than they originally thought. It was funny because they kind of knew what went on at meets, but they didn't really understand the "running side" of me and the way I compete. I think they were surprised by the attention I received, and they were astounded to hear a bunch of people talking about me around the course. One of my friends later told me, "I just wanted to say, 'I know that guy!'" Aside from that, it was really nice to see them there and it is always good to have lots of support and more cheers!
