In it for the ‘long’ run
Over 400 students from 19 area high schools, along with more than 100 coaches and running buddies, gathered at Robert E. Lee High School Nov. 17 on a chilly Saturday morning to run seven miles together in a running program called Marathon High.
Marathon High incorporates team building, bonding, and running. Students train to run a half-marathon (13.1 miles) over the course of four months, meeting three times a week to run in small groups with adult volunteers. The groups practice the Galloway Run-Walk-Run method of interval training to build up their running distances over four months. Although the program requires the runners to keep up, it isn’t competitive at all.
“We start with a 2-mile run and eventually run over 13 miles that includes running over the Acosta bridge,” said Coach Khristi Keefe, Lee school counselor. “We ask students to put forth their best effort, maintaining at least a 14-minute mile average pace, and to support each other. It’s amazing to watch the students high five each other along the way or see them check on each other, making sure they all make it to the end of each run.”
Not only are the students trained to run, but they have the opportunity to make friends and learn new things. Jacob Anderson, a senior at Robert E. Lee, shared why he decided to join Marathon High. “Well, it all started my sophomore year. I quit wrestling and football, but I wanted to stay in a sport. I wanted to run! I stayed because it’s just so much fun with so many positive people,” he said.
First-year volunteer running buddy Jennifer Sandifer had only great things to say about her experience. “Being around new people was a new experience because I am an introvert. I’ve done a few 5Ks, but I agreed to be a ‘running buddy.’ It is such a great experience hearing the students’ stories and backgrounds,” said Sandifer. “If given the opportunity, I would definitely do it again next year.”
Marathon High is taken very seriously by the runners and they feel the need to share this wonderful opportunity with their peers. Vioudny Senat, Lee senior and fourth-year runner, shared a few tips for incoming runners. “To future runners, don’t miss out on training, because if you do, it gets harder. Don’t give up!” she said.
After training for months, students of Marathon High are prepared to run 13 miles. They realize it will take hard work, but with their teammates by their side, it will be worth it. “The most rewarding part is the 13.1 miles and then getting that jacket because you feel like you earned it,” said Mashara Torrance, Lee senior.
Students are now training to run the “Finish Breast Cancer” half-marathon this year with the support of local businesses such as 1st Place Sports, JTC Running, and the Rotary Club of Jacksonville. To learn more about the Marathon High running program, to volunteer, to sponsor, or to donate, visit website marathonhighfl.org.
Submitted by Jasmine Butler
Robert E. Lee High School Senior
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