Starting last year, Barstow hosted its annual Matt Gannon Invitational, inviting more than 20 schools and hundreds of runners in honor of Mr. Gannon, a previous 8th grade history teacher and cross country coach who tragically passed away in 2019.
Cross country captain Jackson Williams ‘25 explains that, “A lot of people really liked Mr. Gannon, so seeing all of those people out there supporting him, was really nice to see.”
As for results, the small, yet mighty, cross country team did not disappoint. In the girls division, sophomore and team captain Isa Welty ‘25 placed 4th overall, while Williams placed 14th overall in the boys division.
Another runner, freshman Mimi Wood ‘26 made her personal record at this meet, making all three outcomes a success.
Overall, cross country has had a lack of student support in the audience, mainly because of the long travel times to meets and the stop-and-go nature of the sport.
But, as Barstow’s only home meet, multiple students, faculty, and staff went out to support the team. Williams adds that, “this meet definitely drew a large crowd, I saw a lot of classmates as I was running and during my breaks.”
Student section support is important in every sport, but especially in endurance based athletics like cross country.
Williams continues, “When you are running that last mile and you feel all of your energy gone, seeing your friends and family cheering you on gives you that extra boost. It’s a really great feeling, having people come out to support you.”
Cross country competes in the XRC Championship Meet on Saturday, 10/15. Be sure to come out to St. Michael the Archangel to support the team!
