Riverside, CA — Over 100 degrees out there, and humid. This course proved to be full of twists and sharp turns. Having moved up to the more competitive Ivy League this year, we were nervous about our performance, especially after a few individual set backs. Despite these, our team came in and performed in a BIG way. Our girls team battled hard to be 3rd overall after our first league outing. Only the top 3 teams get to go to CIF prelims, so this was a big win for them. Stellar performances, lead by Delia Castaneda, from Alissa Ortega and Rebecca Strong surprised our opponents. Our boys team was packed together, 3 sizeable groups under 20 minutes at near 18 flat, mid 18s and 19s. It was fun seeing them race together. They grabbed a convincing 2nd place here. Most exciting was our JV boys grabbing 1st place, in a surprise upset over Riverside Poly. Exciting years ahead for these athletes. Keep up the great work Titans!

Lake Elsinore, CA — Surprise! This suddenly scheduled meet had a few challenges. With the sudden increase in heat, this turned into a real test of mettle. Multiple athletes from both teams did need to drop out as they developed signs of heat illness. Fortunately, our trainers are well trained and everyone recovered well. As our last home meet, both teams ended with perfect scores against Tahquitz High School. Several athletes proved their ability to run in the heat. Our course is a full 5 km, or 3.1 miles. This makes the last part of the course seem just that much longer. Overall we are proud of our team and what they accomplished at this meet.

San Diego, CA — This year is our first going to down to San Diego's Morley Field to participate in the Asic's sponsored invitational by Mt Carmel. The weather was great (San Diego), and our races were in the morning. We were put into Division 1 and tested our metal versus very competitive teams. Some were at CIF finals, state, and even state champions. Despite the competition and rough terrain, many of our athletes were able to improve over last week, some significantly more so. The highlight performances were our 4 medalists. Senior Samantha Jamison once again in the most contested race, and Matthew Cerda with a big race for the Sophomore boys. Megan Crum lead the Sophomore girls with a 3rd place in her race. Mya Tucker gave an amazing performance, just inched out to get second overall in her race at the last stretch. We appreciate the parent's continued support, bringing Gatorade and snacks, as well as all those who cheer on our Titans. So far this has been a great start to the season.

Laguna Hills, CA — As I was cheering on the Senior boys at the finish line, an athlete stopped me from Winchester to tell me that he saw Titans everywhere and that he was impressed with how we stood out. I am excited to describe a bit of how we stood out in a grand way. We ran in Division 2 by gender and grade level. For many, this was their first 3 mile course. It was filled with hills, the challenging hills of Laguna Hills. Excellent performances abounded. Megan Crum won her race, and was in the top 5 girls for the entire day. Senior Samantha Jamison was 4th in her race, and Mya Tucker was also top 10. The boys teams were not to be out done. Over 10 boys received medals between grade levels. Almost every returning athlete ran a new personal record for a 3 mile course, and in their first 3 mile race of the season! If this is a sign of what's to come our team will overcome challenges and surprise us with incredible grit, determination, and very fast times in what may become the best cross country team in our school's history! Thanks again to our athletes, parents, and all those who support this growing program.