What is a PR ?
A PR is a "personal record" for that distance. A "season best" is the best time for that competitive season. Most of our races are run at the 5000 meter distance, but that doesn't mean the courses are the same. Some are more challenging than others and more enjoyable too. Therefore, we can't always judge improvement just by the time on the clock. But, paying attention to PRs does help! We will be keeping track of each athlete's PR and "season best" time. We reward PR's (minimum of 3 races run) with a patch.
You can also find each athlete's PRs and race times online at www.NC.Milesplit.com (membership fee applies to see all stats, but our coaches always have access). Milesplit also lists athlete's ranking for the conference, state, and region - as well as full meet results.
What is a patch?
We reward progress with patches. Patches are awarded to runners who PR. They are also given to winners, so anyone who wins a race, gets a patch. Runners can earn patches at Invitationals and Championship meets as well; finishing in the top 10 or 25 (depending on the race) can result in a patch too. We recommend you select a shirt or jacket or sweatshirt to put your patches on.
Who runs what?
For most races (with the exception of invitationals, the Regional meet, and State) JV and varsity will run together. However, the first 7 are scored as varsity runners. Those 7 individual spots may change throughout the season!
How do we qualify for Regionals or States?
We compete in the Big 8 Conference, within the Mideast Region, for NCHSAA 3A schools. The coaches select the 7 boys and girls who they think will be most successful on that course on that day to compete at the Mideast Regional Championship. From Regionals, the top 4 or 5 (depending on the number of teams competing at the Regional) finishing teams, as well as a set number of individuals (varies by year) who are not a member of those teams will advance to the State Championship race. For more on qualifications, visit www.nchsaa.org/sports/cross-country.
What's a singlet?
Uniform tops (singlets) will be provided for use during the season. Athletes are to hand wash and hang dry their singlets. Athletes are required to purchase their own black racing shorts. Any additional team gear for athletes must be purchased at our team store.
When/where do we practice?
We practice after school on campus or on the roads surrounding Orange High School from 4:15-5:45pm. There are optional morning practices (before school as well). We have found it very difficult to have practices in August and early September because of the heat and heat advisories, so we encourage morning runs. Summer workouts are posted on this site; it is important to note the only true practices are at Orange High School. The runs at other sites throughout the summer are optional.
What is the goal?
The overall development and improvement of each and every runner is our primary goal.
We strive to be competitive locally and on the state level.