As the foliage on the ground quickly is traded for a silky white layer of snow, the start of winter marks the beginning of the holiday season. But for the runners of North Allegheny, it also means the end of cross country season and the start of 6 months of track.
Despite revolving around the same central idea of “running”, track and cross country are two extremely different sports. Cross country consists of a season of running a 5k every meet through autumn air, up hills and through mud, and pasta parties before meet days. As opposed to track, where runners have the option between an array of events of varying distances, spring blooming around the field, and everything located in one place. With the major differences between the two, it’s clear that some runners will have a preference for one season over the other.
“I like track more since long distance isn’t my thing, and I enjoy hurdles more!” said senior Addi Pavely, “I like the adrenaline I get in shorter/middle distance sprints!”
Similar to Pavely, many runners who do both sports will pick one over the other merely due to the length of the races. Those who are more speed oriented frequently opt for track, while those who like distance usually lean towards cross country (as the longest track race tops out at 3,200 meters, or roughly 2 miles).
Another senior, Maya Currie, also agreed that track was the superior sport.
“I love track because the shorter events, usually the 400, are more my preference. I also really enjoy running relays, and it’s fun that track has so many different events instead of everyone doing the same race.”
Others may choose track purely due to the fact that there are multiple events. Having the freedom to choose what one runs is something that just makes track what it is, and with so many events, many become attached to one event and wait all year to begin running it again.
“I prefer track because I love the mile with all my heart.” said Junior Abigail Gordish.
On the contrary, many runners love the 5ks and cool air of cross country.
“I prefer cross country because of the positive and uplifting community!” said Senior Anna Getz.
Junior Mia Ford also declared her love for cross country.
“Cross country is better because I hate running around in circles on a track, and I also hate running down 19. And North Park is so peaceful and the vibe at XC is so much better, we are so tight knit and it’s so much fun.”
Similarly, Senior Justin Peoples said the following.
“Cross country is better because of the team environment and the geography – as in I don’t like running in circles.”
Evidently, there are arguments for both sides in terms of the superior sport. Each season has its own unique characteristics and challenges that could easily sway one to prefer one to the other. Yet despite the arguments, many students hold a special place in their heart for both of these seasons.
Junior Irene Wang said, “I really do love both! The environment in cross country is like no other. It’s literally family, they see you at your worst and your best, and no matter what the people on the team will always support you. And track is just insane, and if you make the most of it, it can be insanely fun too!”
When asked about the two seasons put up against each other, Coach Neff said, “Cross country and track are very complimentary sports. Both are based on hard work and perseverance. Both are challenges because you are training to improve your ability to handle discomfort, and that ability is what separates the good ones from the great ones.”
