Kent varsity cross-country is off to a promising start. Kent cross-country has an encouraging combination of veteran runners and new talent this season, and renewed energy and enthusiasm, combined with old experience, will drive the runners forward.  

In a preseason scrimmage against Hotchkiss, a hard team to beat, they had a narrow loss as they competed without their star runner, John LePino ’17, who was suffering from Lyme Disease.

The first meet of the regular season was against Williston. LePino, captain of the boys team, came in first for Kent and second overall; unfortunately the team results weren’t as strong, with the boys losing 19-40.

Despite the early loss, students remained hopeful, and they were able to place in both the Canterbury and Westminster Invitationals and at Trinity-Pawling against T-P and Berkshire.

While many believe cross country to be a one-man sport, camaraderie is crucial in helping the runners put their best foot forward. First-year runner Yusef Abaza ’19 remarks, “dedication to the team fuels me to the finish line.”

With three more races before Founders and New Englands in early November, that combination of individual motivation and team commitment will hopefully serve the runners well.