Running miles through the streets and backways of Bethesda, the cross country team trains nearly every day, tirelessly perfecting their endurance and technique for the 4A West Regionals and the coveted 4A State Championships. The team is led by beloved head coach Thomas “Marty” Martin, attributed to be the key cog of the program. Atop of that, he also produces winners, boasting an impressive resume.

“The coaching staff is really good. Coach Martin has been coaching for a long time. Both Coach Ashley and Coach Kellen are alumni of the school and team so they know what they’re doing,” senior boys’ captain Koki Takizawa said.

The team competes nearly every week in a variety of events. However, for many, the highlight of Cross Country is the sense of community formed amongst their peers. Hosting carb-filled “pasta dinners”, grueling workouts and long, cheery bus rides to competitions, the team has grown to become an accepting, tight-knit community.

“I really like the team bonding activities, it really helps with team chemistry and making new friends… Cross Country is life,” senior girls’ captain Georgia Myers said.

After a turbulent start to the season, the team looks to right their ship at the Bull Run Invitational on Sept. 17. Practices have gotten more intense to accomplish this; however, the “road to states”, as the team describes it, is quite brutal.

“We eat meals together every Friday before meets… and we get business done the next day,” star junior Calix McCormick said.