Rain or shine, the Diamond Bar cross country team prepares for the extensive season ahead, competing in two summer races hosted by La Serna High School. 

After weeks of training, the team has high hopes for this upcoming season. With new talent joining the team, and juniors Codie Kwok, Natalie Dai and sophomore Jaelynn Au leading as their captains, they have worked to establish a solid team. 

“The dedication shown by these athletes and new runners show a promising season,” junior captain Ethan Hoen said via Discord. 

Over the summer, the team dedicated a total of eight weeks, running roughly 15 to 20 miles per week, four days a week in preparation for the season. Throughout this period, they focused on different exercises and drills including high knees and squats to refine their form. They also worked on their teamwork and collaboration, hosting bonding events like their annual pasta party. 

“The goal is to be better than the year before,” head coach Mallinali Cooke said. “I just really want to see the kids improving and progressing.” 

This past week, the cross country team participated in a time trial with nearby schools including South Hills, Covina, Glendora and Northview to find their footing in the season. This past Saturday, the team competed at the Pomona Fairplex in the Cool Breeze Invitational hosted by Claremont. The varsity boys team placed top 20 out of 45 teams, and the varsity girls team placed 16th out of 24 teams. 

“The team has a lot to improve, but as the team continues to practice hard, I’m positive we will see good results this upcoming season,” junior captain Natalie Dai said. 

During this upcoming season, the team will push toward not just winning the league, but also improving as a whole. Their first league race will be held at Horse Thief Canyon Invitational on Oct. 20. 

“It’s important to try and look at the big picture,” Cooke said. “You’re not going to be better tomorrow, you have to work harder and be patient to get better.”