Many people are tired of hearing the term "COVID-19", as the virus has become the number one reason for postponements and cancellations. It can be extremely difficult to conduct a sporting event in 2020, especially one of larger size. But for Coach Chris Schrader of Marble Falls, nothing is too difficult if it means athletes can go out and compete.
Hosting a meet did take convincing, but thankfully Schrader is a talented salesman. He explains to us that,
"The deal I made with my athletic director was that we'd bring the eight teams, let them park, bring their kids in, they race, soon as they race, we get 'em out of here,"
and he followed through beautifully.
It was clear at the Marble Falls Invitational that safety was a priority. Fans were required to watch from the stadium bleachers, with social distancing of course. To help enforce this, spectators entered one way and exited another. Fans also had to be wearing a mask at all times. Along with results and rankings, there were several announcements made throughout the meet reminding us to wear masks and social distance.
Athletes also participated in the COVID-19 risk mitigation. While waiting to race, they stayed with their own team, and their smiles were hidden behind masks decorated in school colors. Runners had a large area behind the starting line to warm up, and were encouraged to be moving at all times in order to stay as spread out as possible. Finishers celebrated with air high fives and verbal congratulations. Marble Falls decided to mail medals in order to reduce contact. At the conclusion of a race, schools left as soon as possible.
Since UIL guidelines only allow eight teams of 10 runners to participate in each race, it is even more important to place competition correctly. Marble Falls used past times to place the faster schools with each other, working with the coaches of the teams who registered. There was obvious success in this method, as plenty of PRs were crushed. "The local coaches... they're really a great group of people to work with." Schrader told us.
So while COVID-19 certainly makes things different, we have grown to learn that different doesn't have to mean worse. Athletes everywhere have proven that they are willing to follow a few additional rules if it means they get to come together to participate in the sport they love. Coaches have as well by putting in the extra hours it takes to do everything just right. Cross country takes a lot of heart from everyone involved, and the Marble Falls meet is just one example of this.