Robert Helps His XC Team To a State Championship

Up at 6:30 to eat a good breakfast and get ready.  Robert had scrambled eggs and toast.  YUM.  The weather is cold and miserable.  It rained all  night and it's only 40 degrees.  We made sure Robert was dressed in layers, had a hat, gloves and an extra pair of socks.  Vicki picked Robert up at 7:00 to take him to the school to catch the bus.  Unfortunately, the bus never came!  YIKES!  All the kids had to be farmed into car to get to the meet.  

Robert arrived at the meet around 9:15 am.  They got their bibs on and went on a walk thru.  The girls Championship race was at 10:30 am.  The boys Championship race was at 11:15 am.  Robert had to miss a soccer game (started at 11:00 am in Louisville) to run in the state championship.  He's so excited and a bit nervous to run in the championship race.  He's done great all year long - being very consistent in all his races.  

The boys kept their warm clothing on for warm up as long as possible.  

Mark counseled with Robert up to the last few minutes.

The boys are antsy and ready to run.  No more clothes covering their arms and legs.  BURRR!

On you Marks, Get Set, Go!

Robert at the 1 mile mark.  He looks good and strong!!!  There are 506 runners in this race.  It gets packed very fast.  Robert had to get to a quick start so not to get stuck in a crowd.  He did great.

At the two mile mark Robert was in a good position.  

He looked comfortable and relaxed.  

At the finish!  

Robert is just about to cross the finish line.

He finished in 30th place with a PR of 14:50.  

Wow!!!  What a great race!  Robert we are so proud of you.  You did fantastic!

Robert with friends Nolan and Max

As a tradition we always get the kids a Championship tee shirt or sweatshirt.  Robert prefers the sweatshirt ($40).  This year it is bright orange.

Back:  Mason Beard, Logan Otter, Alex McClarty, Nick Bierne
Front:  Robert Lowe and Nolan Ruggles
Not shown:  Max Miller

At the Awards ceremony they announced that the NOMS Boys team took 1st place for the third year in a row.  Robert was so excited to be part of the Championship team.  The weather didn't dampen their spirits!!!  These boys have won all their races that they were at (A few had to miss the DeSales meet so we didn't win that one, but 1/2 of the boys including Robert weren't able to run in that meet).

Congratulations to Robert and his teammates for another fantastic win at the State XC Championship!