This cross country season proved that hard work pays off for senior runners Macy and Ian. With both athletes having such an impactful junior year, it was exciting to see how much energy was going to be brought for their senior year. With Macy struggling with injuries in and out of this season, it was riveting to see that she came back with a bang and returned stronger than ever. Both Ian and Macy helped the team clinch into State by pushing through every day, emphasizing that this was their last shot to leave an impact on their high school athletic achievements.
After the incredulous season they both had this year, I was eager to hear from them on their success. On November 14, 2024, I met up with Macy Eggart and Ian Lash to interview them on their lasting impressions and athletic accomplishments at State. As they both entered the classroom that Thursday morning, I took a seat and asked my first set of questions.
My first question for them was: “How do you personally feel about your performance this year?”
After a little thought, Macy answered, “I felt good, and I was glad I beat my records over the season and was able to place 1st team for MMC champs. Throughout the season and each race, I was more excited than nervous about competing,”. MCC stands for Mid Columbia Conference. The conference includes over nine different schools. Once the season comes to an end, all coaches from each team come together and vote for the top athletes who showed the best performance.
Furthering Macy’s reply, Ian responded, “Good, I stayed pretty consistent over the season, I had no stepbacks that pushed me back during the season; overall I was very proud of how I did this season.”
The second question I asked Macy and Ian was: “What was your biggest challenge this season?”
Macy quickly replied with urgency, “I battled in and out of injuries this season, but my coach helped me in and out of practice to maintain a healthy body and be able to come back and compete.”
After restating the question to Ian, he answered, “This season was one of the years I didn’t face any challenges, it was the reason why it was such a successful one.”
Following the fluidity of Macy and Ian’s prior responses, I inquired: “What motivates you to keep running, especially when it gets tough during races?”
After a short pause, Macy responded, “Keeping a good positive mindset throughout the races helps me push through when it gets hard. Also, the help of my family and coaches motivates me to finish the race with great pace.”
Ian seconded her response, pondering thoughtfully before sharing. “I overall hate losing in races.”
After finishing up my notes from previous questions, I had one more question to ask Macy and Ian. “What’s something you wish people understood better about the sport of cross country?”
Macy responded briskly, “Each workout and race is different throughout the season and the little accomplishments matter, they keep you motivated. Even if you don’t finish your first mile well, you have to find a way to keep yourself motivated.”
Ian added to Macy’s reply; he shared, “Most people overlook the sport however it is way more competitive than what people think!” For context, racing involves a lot of mental thinking and self-pushing, which builds discipline and stamina in the runners.
As the interview ended, I wrapped up my notes and I thanked Macy and Ian for taking time out of their day to be interviewed. After an outstanding senior year in high school, I hope that success transfers to the collegiate level for both athletes. To conclude, I hope an overview of the interview gave you a better understanding of the sport of cross country and how different levels of competitiveness go into it.
