Bronx Science Boys' Varsity Cross Country Squad: In-depth Look at their Training and Journey
Bronx Science Cross Country Team Shines Amid Challenges
The Bronx High School of Science's Boys' Varsity Cross Country team has been navigating a tough period since 2021, facing hurdles such as the Coronavirus pandemic, injuries, and a lack of organisation. Yet, despite these setbacks, the team has shown resilience and is now on the rise.
This year, at the sophomore Bronx Borough Championships, the team achieved a perfect score of 15 points, a testament to their determination and teamwork. One of the key contributors to this success is Liam Hernandez '26, a new member of the team. His hard work and dedication have earned him a top-five placement, leading many to believe he is on the brink of claiming a varsity spot.
The team's unique dynamic plays a significant role in their performance and competitive spirit. According to Kyle Lee '26, a team member, everyone is pushing each other, fostering growth within the team. This supportive environment is one of the reasons Lee joined the cross country team, regardless of his running level.
The Bronx Science Cross Country team's runs often take them to unique locations, such as secluded trails and areas far from the city. Unlike many competitors who run on city streets or highly developed parks, the team's runs can lead them as far as Yonkers. This unique setting provides a special experience for the team members.
Strava, a popular app among cross country athletes in New York City, is used to track runs. Easy days for the Bronx Science team are not typically days off from running but rather group runs that allow for freedom and building team dynamics. These relaxed runs are essential for team bonding, with exploring and conversations being enjoyed most by many members.
The team's enjoyment of running comes from the shared experience and the disconnect from the academic rat race after a long day at school. In 2019, the team won the Public School Athletic League's city championship cross country race, further demonstrating their love for the sport.
Looking back, in 2019, the top two runners for the team, Sawyer Cooper '20 and Nathaniel Lentz '20, ran the 5 kilometer Van Cortlandt park course in elite times of 16:32 and 16:34 respectively. The Boys' Varsity Cross Country team at Bronx Science stands out as they run through woods and to new places, unlike other sports at the school.
As the team looks towards the future, there is new hope for success with better organisation, a stronger work ethic, and fresh talent. The team values their unique dynamic and the special experiences they share, whether it's running through woods, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying a relaxed conversation with teammates.
