The Tallmadge High School Girls Cross Country team executed the perfect race Oct. 28 at the 2023 Regional meet at Boardman High School, earning the title of regional runner-ups and a spot at the State meet down in Columbus Nov. 4. 

“The girls team ran even better than expected and finished second overall. I could only dream of such a perfect race. It is definitely not that I did not think they could accomplish this, but the regional race is hard. There is so much pressure, nervousness and huge expectations to fulfill. They figured it out and did it. They are only the second team in Tallmadge history to ever accomplish this feat,” Coach Karyn Loveless said in the Regional meet recap.

The coaches and runners went to Boardman with one goal in mind: qualify to the State meet. The girls goal was to qualify being in the top six teams, with one of their race plans being to get in front of Salem and Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy’s (CVCA) top five runners. The girls perfectly executed this, gaining a 29-point lead on CVCA and a 60-point lead on Salem. The girls have worked to beat these two teams this entire season and the goal was hugely accomplished Oct. 28.

“Going into the race, I knew I had to beat Salem’s fourth girl, like I did the week before at districts. I also planned to stay with any CVCA girl around me, then pass them when I felt good or at the end,” senior Sydney Becks said when referring to her race plan.

One of the biggest contributing factors to accomplishing this goal was the leadership senior Cara Basso conveyed throughout the year. Her goal for her team was to make it to the state meet during the four years she was in high school. When they reached this goal on Saturday, she broke out in tears of utter disbelief and happiness. The team had accomplished everything they had hoped for all year, and her leadership was at the center of it.

“I am just so thankful to be a part of an awesome program. The dynamic of our team is so powerful. This group of girls is truly amazing,” Basso said.  

The girls team has had one of the best seasons the coaches have ever seen, consistently complimenting the girls for their dedication. The State meet will be held Nov. 4, in Columbus at Fortress Obetz and Memorial Park (4175 Alum Creek Drive, Obetz, OH 43207). Any students, parents, teachers or community members interested in going down to Columbus to support the girls cross country team can visit the OHSAA website for more information and live results on Saturday.