Senior House Cross Country

Yesterday we had senior house cross country (year 11s and 12s). I knew I wouldn't be able to beat 2 of the year 12's - Nicole and Laura, but I was kinda hoping maybe I could come 3rd (best case scenario). Worst case scenario I thought would be 6th or 7th. I was really nervous as I put a bit of pressure on myself to do well.

I was very glad when the race started before I had a chance to get really nervous. Crystal, who's sports captain was telling Nicole to watch out for me and trip me over coz I was a threat to her. I thought no way I'm not even going to be close to Nicole! I was in about the top 5 from the start but I knew one girl who went out fast would quickly drop off the pace (I was right). I got a bit anxious when I heard fast footsteps behind me, however it was just Mad Dog who'd come for a chat (I didn't mind too much if she beat me). Mad Dog dropped off soon and it was just Laura and Nicole way in front with me 3rd. I was very happy if it stayed that way. I couldn't hear footsteps behind me so I was sure I was at least 100m in front of the next runners. At the halfway point I had taken about 6.15 minutes so I was happy with that. I was still in third place. Just after halfway, Nicole was about 30m in front of me and she dropped her ribbon and I picked it up. From then on I could see her in the distance and I was slowly closing the gap. I noticed a sign that said 1100m to go and I was running a really good time. Not long after I overtook Nicole (shock horror!) and gave her her ribbon. I definitely expected her to chase me down again. I realised about 100m from the finish that there was no way she could beat me. I tried to do a sprint finish but my legs wouldn't push harder so I just cruised to the end. I think everyone at the finishing line were so surprised to see me come in second as Nicole just doesn't get beaten. I ended up finishing in 13.04 which I'm happy with as it's 4.21 pace.

Some of my friends did a great job with Mary Ann in 7th and Tessa, Groundzie and FanDog all in the top 20 or so.

There's a PB meet on Friday after school (4km) and I'm hoping to reduce my 4km PB (currently 18.30) to under 18.10.

At school today everyone kept mentioning cross country (and calling me a freak for beating Nicole).