Ripon High School attended the Lodi Flame Invitational on August 25, with impressive results from the Varsity girls team where they placed first out of eight teams. The whole team placed first in the division four league schools at the meet, ensuring a successful season.  The meet in Lodi on Friday was the team’s first meet for the season.

The athletes were satisfied with their performance. Kayla Jacklich, a senior on the Varsity squad, lead the team to victory along side Sandra Castillo, a sophomore, with Laila Iriigoyen following closely behind.

“We all pushed each other at the beginning,” said Jacklich. “We were motivational and told each other the pain will be over soon, sowe  put in all of our effort.”

The runners train hard to be successful. Many have routines that they follow to improve as a runner.

“You got to make sure you are eating well, drinking enough water, and doing good at practice,”  said Sarah Thompson, regarding the meet and the preparation that was dedicated to their success.

Others in the team found the meet more challenging.

“Personally, I just got off of an injury, so it was a tough meet and I gave it my all,” said Kiser, who found the meet more challenging, “Although, the team did really good overall, which was great.”

The runners have high expectations for the team this season and goals that they will work hard to achieve.

“I want to lead our team to state. I want to help everyone be their best,” Jacklich said when asked about her expectations and goals for the upcoming challenging season.

Besides wanting to do great as a team, the athletes also have personal goals that they wish to accomplish by the end of the season.

“This season I want to push myself to my limit, literally. I want to break my personal record for sure and continue to get better throughout the season,” said Kiser.

The Cross Country team works hard together to prepare and improve for their meets. The team has set high goals to accomplish. Because the girls got first place at their first meet, the team will work very hard to qualify for state. They even have a team quote they use to motivate each other. “Jam it, cruise it, kick it!”