ROCKINGHAM — High school sports officially kicked off this week in North Carolina, and the Richmond boys and girls cross country teams are intensifying their workout regimen.
Head coach Jessica Covington and the Raiders and Lady Raiders have been steadily increasing their distances and lowering their times since the beginning of August.
Now with the first meet less than two weeks away, Richmond’s runners are gearing up for what Covington believes will be an exciting season.
It’s Covington’s first season coaching both the boys and girls distance teams, and Richmond brings to it a wealth of returning veterans and a mixture of fresh faces.
Returning for the boys are seniors Carson Jordan and Will Thompson, who Covington believes will set the pace for leadership and a competitive edge.
New this year is Brian Morales, who has consistently led the pack in practices. A host of freshmen, including Cain Hunsucker and Samuel Hawks, are also expected to perform well.
Junior Maylyn Wallace will lead the Lady Raiders in her second season, hoping to capitalize within the conference after a breakout year as a sophomore. Joining her will be senior Alena Craddock and sophomores Rylie Bohman and Sheccid Heaton.
Richmond’s season will begin on Nov. 18 with a Sandhills Athletic Conference meet at Purnell Swett High School.
