The Surge

Sophomore Kathiana Barreto started cross country in middle school, went on a brief hiatus during her freshman year and recently returned back with a determined mindset to achieve great strides in the sport. Barreto said she originally joined cross country while she was doing track to better prepare for upcoming track seasons. After many years on the team Barreto said she finds cohesive teamwork to be the most valuable lesson she has learned.

“I learned that having each other’s back is important.” Barreto said. “It is good to have the support from others when it is needed, specifically during a hard run.”

Alongside Barreto and her teammates using their synergistic energy to push each other to accomplish new heights, Barreto said she stays motivated through her teammates. She said it brings out the best in her and pushes her to give it her all.

“I stay motivated by being with my friends and running together because it is more enjoyable,” Barreto said. “This allows me to finish the workout and give my best.”

With constant drive and ambition through teammate support and buoyant energy in the sport, Barreto said she is proud to be setting the pace at the onset of the season. She said she finds this to be the starting point for her success and hopes to keep the winning momentum going.

“Even though the season had just started, I am proud of myself for getting first place at one of our local meets,” Barreto said. “With this win I know the season will go well and I hope to win more in the future.”