10/15 update

Braves,

The State Championships are finally here, and we have put ourselves in position to perform at our best and end the year on a high note. I firmly believe that we can place higher than we are projected to, based on the caliber of the individuals that make up our team. Let’s make some good things happen, run hard for each other, have fun, and the results will take care of themselves.

The bus for state will leave at 11:30 on Wednesday, earlier than previous meets because we race earlier, and it takes a significant amount of time to find parking then get set up. We are treating this meet like every other. We will get there, set up, then there will be some time to familiarize yourself with the course, and then warm up as a team before your races. The girls race at 2 PM, and the boys at 3:30.

Attached is the course map.

All JV members of the team are encouraged to ride the bus with us to State. I will excuse you at 11:15, however, anyone who doesn’t come to the meet will be “unexcused” so to speak, so you will receive a truancy if you leave class but don’t come to the meet – I don’t see that being an issue but thought I’d give you a heads up. Bring money for food in case the team decides to stop for a little something to eat on the way home. And please remember, if you choose not to ride the bus home, you are only allowed to go home with a parent, and I need that parent to tell us they are taking you, per district policy.

Tomorrow, Monday, the Barlow’s have invited the team to their home at 5 PM for a team pasta dinner. Furthermore, Jared Ward, who finished 6^th at these past Olympics in the Marathon, will be there to address the team and talk about his experiences. Jared is a great person and athlete and it will be well worth your time to hear from him. We are asking that you bring a side, e.g. fruits/vegetables/dessert, to share with the team as well. The address to the Barlow’s is

45 S 500 E

Bountiful, UT 84010

Finally, I have included some information that we have been asked to share with our team and supporters concerning the state meet.

Parking

Parking in Sugarhouse Park is limited, will be crowded and is discouraged. With races being run throughout the day, vehicle access to the park and leaving the park will be slow. Parking for both buses and spectators will be available in the Highland High School driving range located just south of the school and adjacent to the stadium where all races finish. Use of this lot is strongly encouraged. The lot is accessed from 17th East. Only meet administration will be allowed in the lot immediately west of the starting line.

Assistance to Competitors

Coaches, please educate the members of your team, their parents and others that will come to support your student athletes that per rule 9-7-4 it is a disqualification for a competitor who receives any assistance (other than cheering) from another person. The most common form of the violation of this rule is when a non-competitor runs alongside a competitor during the race (pacing). This has been a problem in the past. It would be unfortunate to have to disqualify a runner for the actions of someone not in the race. Please help by informing those who will be there to support your team.