Running Cross Country is difficult; it takes a lot of dedication and training. Senior Andy Mask, the boys cross country team captain, has been going the distance for a while.

“I began in middle school when my neighbor, who ran in college, started training with me and got me really interested,” Mask said. “Running is something that you can keep for a lifetime, not just while in high school.”

Mask was the varsity boys top finisher this year, leading the team at every meet. At district Oct. 26, he placed ninth in 16:56.50, qualifying for regionals, one of Mask’s goals.

“It’s fun pushing yourself to new limits and setting goals for yourself and achieving them,” Mask said. ”Running is something you can keep for a lifetime not just while in school.”

Mask completed his season at regionals in San Antonio, Nov. 3. The senior placed 63rd out of 179 with a time of 17:51.40.

“Andy’s a great role model for our team,” cross country head coach Kelly Thompson said. “His class never really had anyone to look up to, so they had to figure things out on their own. He will definitely be missed.”