The North Atlanta High School cross country team is lacing up to start another season strong, with returning veterans and promising newcomers. With a busy fall season ahead, this year’s captains, Cabell Townsend and Scottie Brown, are ready to leave their mark on this year’s season.
Last season ended on a bittersweet note with the boys finishing 11th at state, which was better than anticipated, while the girls’ team narrowly missed qualifying. That combination of achievement and setback has become a motivator as the new year begins. The captains and coaches are emphasizing the importance of consistency and determination to finish this season with no regrets. “This year we have an older and more talented team,” Cabell Townsend said. “Our potential is through the roof; it’s up to how we finish.”
The Warriors’ schedule begins with the first meet, featuring Bob Blastow (8/23), always a fan favorite, and then proceeds to the APS Championships (9/30). These two events will help set the tone and enable the team to strive for success in the postseason, where they hope to secure a top finish. The warriors know they have a target on their backs after their past successes, and they can’t wait to prove themselves again. “The boys showed us their high expectations when they exceeded their last-place prediction,” Cluster said.
One unique challenge in this cross-country preseason has been the track’s closure for maintenance. The team typically meets up at the bleachers after school before beginning practice on the track; so for the newcomers, they’re not getting the full North Atlanta cross country experience. With the track closed, the team’s workouts have been pretty limited, but they’ve adapted well. While the loss of a familiar spot to practice in might seem like a setback, the Dubs aren’t letting it get to them. Captains have led the way in keeping the spirits high, ensuring that the team remains focused despite the new changes. “It really only changed the environment we congregate in, but we’ve adjusted, and the vibes are still high,” said Scottie Brown.
As the starting gun approaches for their first meet, the Warriors are focused, determined, and ready to chase big goals. Seniors in particular are feeling fueled in their final year and using that momentum to push themselves and their teammates. Everyone is excited to see how the team will do, especially with so many seniors. Although it’s their last run, one final ride is full of high expectations.
