Who in their right mind would put themselves through cross country practice five times a week knowing they will never get to run in a meet again, let alone win a medal? Junior Lexi Freund is who.

Freund started this year knowing she would be running only in practice, and would not be able to compete. Last year Freund fainted while running due to her allergies. Freund now only runs with the team during practices and goes to the meets to support the other runners.

It is very rare that coach Paul Iekel lets someone run in practices only. Iekel said Wednesday, “Allergies stop her from running.” Iekel explained that it’s best she not compete because of her allergies.

“She’s is staying in shape for track,” said Iekel.  With Freund being one of the better sprinters on Iekel’s track team, it’s best she stays in shape and ready for track season to roll around.

Freund said, “I enjoy sprinting better than long distance.” Freund does miss competing but also knows it’s for the best if she doesn’t. Freund said that she really likes “getting close to the girls on my team.” It’s one of the best parts of XC in her opinion.

Freund said she plans on just practicing next year again. She also isn’t a huge fan of how far they run every day but says it’s better than not running at all. “One of the hardest things about cross country is how sore I get. But sometimes I just have to work through it.”

Freund has been working very hard this season and keeps getting better. It just goes to show winning truly isn’t everything in a sport. Sometimes you have to make the best out of what you can do.