Runners take your mark, get set, go!

These three commands are the only things on senior Holly Cook’s mind when preparing to run a cross country race.  Cook is the top runner this season for the women’s varsity cross country team.

Cook started running cross country in 2004, when she participated in the youth Bill Brown races.  She transferred to JC in the second semester last year for better coaching in running.  Coach, Robert Torres looked forward to Cook joining the team.

“Holly has greatly exceeded my expectations for the year. I knew she was good, but she’s improved a lot and has become the best girl in the IAAM A conference and one of the best in the state,” said Torres.  Cook enjoys the feeling of accomplishment when she wins a race or beats a personal best time.

Cook always keeps a positive attitude while thinking about running.  “Cross Country is a great sport.  It has an individual factor, but also a strong team factor,” she said.

Having already practiced with the team during track season, joining the cross country team this year posed no threat for Cook.

“The team is pretty crazy, but great. Everyone is really nice to each other regardless of grade, or how fast you run, or stuff like that,” Cook said. “Holly is a good addition to the team , and a key factor to our success this season,” senior, Taylor Battaglia said.   Cook has won all four dual meets this year as well as the Knights Invitational.  She also placed third in the Disney Invitational in Florida this past October.  “This has definitely been my best season ever. Way better than I ever hoped for,” Cook said.

Her favorite experience with the cross country team was being able to bond with her teammates in Disney.  “Although we are a
cross country team, basketball was definitely one of the most fun things the team did while down there. I think the trip was a good
bonding experience for a lot of people on the team. It was fun to go away with friends,” Cook said.

According to Cook, continuing to run in college depends on what division school she attends.  “My first two colleges [choices]
are University of Maryland and Shippensburg University, but I am looking at others too,” Cook said.

Cook looks forward to continuing her running experience this school year during indoor and outdoor track.