This year, the girls cross country team has made great strides towards improvement. The team has big numbers, most of them coming from the freshmen and sophomore classes. One runner in particular has made some of the greatest improvements on the team.

In her second year on the high school cross country team, sophomore Ashley Wendt was able to capture the number one running spot on the varsity team, as well as qualifying for the State cross country meet.

Wendt started running the summer before her seventh grade year. “One of the things I’ve always enjoyed most about running is the feeling of accomplishment it gives me. I like the challenge it presents, and I like competing and pushing myself in meets,” said Wendt.

Her favorite course to run is either in Atlantic or Swan Lake. “As coach Henderson would say, every course is my favorite course. I run well on hills, but I also like the courses that go through different scenery, like through forests or things like that,” said Wendt.

Wendt’s best time this year was 19:56 at the Shenandoah meet.

At the State qualifying meet that was held in Atlantic, Wendt finished sixth with a time of 20:32.

Wendt said, “I feel so relieved and thrilled to be going to State this year, but I’m also pretty nervous. I went to State cross country last year to support Ryan (Hawkins) and Tiffany (Williams), I’m excited to actually be competing this year. It’s going to be an unforgettable experience, and a great way to end the season.”

At the State meet, Wendt is hoping to set a new personal record, and finish somewhere in between 25th and 35th.

Wendt barely gives herself any time off when it comes to running, “For the most part, I practice six days a week, usually only taking Sunday’s off,” said Wendt.

“My hardest competition on the team would be Karsyn Rush and Pluma Pross. My coach and teammates help me improve by giving me motivation. We all support each other so much. During meets in particular, it helps to have the coaches out on the course telling me what to do and when to do it. Having coach Henderson giving us scouting reports before every meet also helps me figure out where I should be in the race or who I should try to stick with,” said Wendt.

Wendt is also involved in FFA, Spanish Club, and soccer.

The State cross country meet is this Saturday, Oct. 29, in Fort Dodge. Wendt will be participating in that meet along with senior Phoenix Shadden, and freshman Bradley Dennis.