Cross country runs through the Unionville Bash

On September 6, the Unionville cross country team held a cross country home meet with a total of 48 other teams signing up. 1,400 runners took to the field, and ran two miles to race to the finish line at the middle school. It was a thrilling and exciting day with excellent results. The spirits were high, and the runners did great.

Spectators were able to watch the runners run the two miles from the sidelines, and cheer on their kids, friends, or family. There were concessions, a DJ, and medals for the top 25 runners in each race. The running began at 8:20 in the morning and continued with a new race every 20 minutes until the last one at 10:40am. After finishing their races, runners got to cheer on their friends and have fun! The starting line was the baseball field near the Patton cafeteria and continued around the campus. Then, the race ended near the turf fields of the middle school. The high school also had a tent of running clothes for sale, as well as t-shirts. A fun prize the bash did was give five backpacks to the top male and female teams that had the most success that day. Lots of swag was provided to rep an incredible event.

The boys finished first overall, with freshman Ryan Blasko placing first in 9th grade boys. Girls from the high school did amazing as well. Many personal bests were recorded, and they placed fourth overall in the race. Seniors Justine Smith and Courtney Carlson received medals for their outstanding performances. The environment was electric. Unionville cheered on their teammates’ victory. Every runner was enjoying the environment, as well as each other’s company. It was a great place to be on a bright and sunny Saturday. Junior Unionville cross country runner Emily Chapman, also believes that the environment was unbeatable. She loves the energy of cross country. The cheering, laughing, dancing, and, of course, winning are what made the day so great. She said, “Our whole team can agree it was one of our favorite parts of the season.” To hold such an energizing and fun event at the high school truly strengthens our spirit.

Chapman also mentions, “We always have a blast cheering on everyone and, especially after we run and all the teams come together to make a dance circle and do the Cotton Eyed Joe, the Wobble, and the Cha Cha Slide!” The DJ was great at bringing everyone together for fun dances after the race. It was a fantastic way to keep spirits lifted, and the environment upbeat and fun. Cross country events are the place to be for fun dances, loud cheering, and the best energy, especially when they are held at the high school by head coach Mr. Mark Lacianca.

The Unionville Bash is one of the most fun days in the cross country season with multiple wins and amazing performances. Every year, the cross country team does not let our school down by holding up an impressive title. The team is a great and exciting group of athletes to be a part of. It takes a lot of stamina and strength to be a cross country runner. Keep up the great work and energy, cross country.