Of Puddles, Preparation, and Perseverance
Cross-country competitions can feel either relatively easy or quite challenging. It largely depends on the weather in the weeks leading up to the event. When the sun has been shining and the soil has had time to dry, running conditions are relatively easy.
However, when the preceding weeks are rainy and wet, the conditions on the course are worse, with damp grass and plenty of puddles in the terrain.
Today's cross-country race fell into the latter category. Unfortunately for me, my race was scheduled as the last of the day. The more runners that take on the course before you, the more slippery it becomes. This race consisted of four laps, and the final two were among the most difficult laps I've experienced in recent events.
Still, this is what cross-country running is all about. When I signed up, I knew I was committing to slime and mud.
It's funny. Runners are a special breed—we embrace the challenge of this kind of environment.
The condition of a cross-country course reminds me of life’s challenges. Sometimes, you prepare for the worst, only to find the reality isn’t as bad. Other times, the challenge is just as difficult as you thought it would be, and you’re grateful for the preparation investments. Both scenarios share a common theme: preparation matters. While preparation is something you can control, reality often isn’t. So, keep preparing—you never know how much it will pay off in the end.