Gainesville cross country runners build grit through summer training
Gainesville cross country runners spent several early mornings a week running around town and on Caney Mountain trails during off-season training this summer. Coaches Gary Emrick and David Murphy said they’re looking forward to a great season ahead. The team’s first meet will be held Thursday, Sept. 10.
Gainesville R-V cross country runners have spent much of their summer building the endurance, strength and mental toughness they will need for the upcoming fall season.
Coaches Gary Emrick and David Murphy said runners gathered for workouts three mornings each week beginning at 7:30 a.m. Training took place on the hills around Gainesville, while Fridays were reserved for the rugged trails of Caney Mountain.
“Cross country takes a special kind of mental toughness,” Emrick said. “These kids get up early during summer break, put in the miles, and do the hard work when it would be a whole lot easier to stay in bed. They get it.”
The coaches said success in cross country requires more than simply wanting to improve.
“Motivation has to come from inside — you have to want it, be willing to push when it hurts, and understand that success doesn’t just show up because you want it. You have to chase it,” Murphy said.
That philosophy is reflected in the program’s motto: “No Grit. No Grind. No Greatness."
“These kids truly understand what it takes,” Murphy added. “They know that greatness is earned through grit, found in the grind and celebrated in the success of improvement.”
The program’s growth in recent years has been evident in the numbers. At the first official practice following the first day of school Monday, Head Coach Gary Emrick said 44 athletes attended, and both coaches expect that number to continue increasing.
“I’m guessing there will be over 60 total junior high and high school runners before we invite the elementary over for their camp and for their home meet which is on Saturday, Sept. 26,” Murphy said.
Gainesville High School will open its cross country competition schedule Thursday, Sept. 10, at Willow Springs.
With a strong summer of preparation behind them and growing participation in the program, the Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs are entering the season with plenty of momentum — and an understanding that improvement comes from putting in the work.