The District 11-5A cross country meet isn’t until Oct. 10, but on Saturday, the Redhawks got an early look at the course during the Lovejoy Invitational.

“This meet was a great preview for the district. Although the course is slightly different, it will be equally as challenging,” girls’ head coach Khera Vay said. “I believe allowing the athletes to compete in the venue that they will run for championship meets is important to help keep their nerves calm and give them a sense of confidence when it matters the most.”

Many of the runners were thankful to get an early look at the district course, but it doesn’t mean things will be easier in October.

“This last meet was a very difficult course, there was a lot of hills, and it was hot,” sophomore Jacinda Ward. “The outcome was okay.”

The team hopes outcomes will improve at the district meet and Vay has a plan to help the runners be ready for the course.

“The athletes competed well and will be ready to compete on that course again on Oct. 10th for district,” Vay said. “We will incorporate some longer steady hill climbs into the next few weeks, keep trusting the process and working hard.”