As Samuel McLamb, the senior captain, often reminds us during assembly, the cross country team does exist. In fact, they are having their best season in recent history. They have won two meets thus far, which is exciting because wins have not been easy to come by in recent years.

When asked what has led to such success, Samuel answered: “[i]t’s a mixture of two things: good timing, as we have many good runners, and leadership.” Samuel also credited Walker Lilly, Reece Bluestein, and Merritt Brazell for showing great effort resulting in excellent times in meets.

Samuel’s favorite course to run is Hammond’s own because, in his words, “you can’t beat your home course.”

“It’s a hard course, but that’s why I like it. My sport is every other sport’s punishment,” said Samuel.

Samuel is the kind of student who runs 5k’s for fun, and he stays motivated during races by putting his team above himself.

“Everybody is experiencing the same thing as me, so, by quitting, I’m saying my pain is worse than everyone else’s,” he said. He added: “the state championship will come in two to three years, so it’s important to Walker and me to help move the team in the right direction and build it for the future.”

Samuel believes that Walker will continue developing the team next year after he graduates. He also believes runners like Merritt and Reece will carry the team in the future.

There are two meets remaining this season: region meet at South Campus on Tuesday, October 22 and state meet at Heathwood Hall on November 2. The cross country team hopes to see plenty of students at these last two events supporting them and cheering them on to victory.