There’s something timeless about the crunch of leaves underfoot, the rhythm of breath in cool autumn air, and the quiet determination of a runner pushing through the woods. For me, cross country at St. Thomas Aquinas wasn’t just a sport, it was a passion. Years ago, I proudly wore the Saints singlet, racing through the trails and chasing the thrill of competition. I was fortunate enough to be crowned a NORWOSSA champion, but what I remember most isn’t the medal, it’s the feeling of running for something bigger than myself. Every stride I took helped my team, and that sense of unity made me push harder.
Fast forward to September 24, and the spirit of the Saints is alive and well.
On a crisp Wednesday morning, STAHS hosted the annual Rock N’ Root Cross Country Run, drawing runners from across the region to test their mettle on the rugged, winding trails that define this beloved event. The course, a mix of forest paths and uneven terrain, is as challenging as it is inspiring, a true test of endurance, grit, and heart.
And the Saints delivered.
Grade 7/8 Girls – 2.5 KM
The younger Saints set the tone early with a trio of top five finishes.
- Cashlyn LeVasseur blazed through the course in 11:50, earning a strong 2nd place finish.
- Grace Sedesky followed close behind in 3rd with a time of 12:13, and
- Avase Tsevende rounded out the pack in 4th at 12:17.
Their performances were a testament to teamwork and tenacity, each runner pushing not just for personal glory, but for the pride of their school.
Grade 7/8 Boys – 2.5 KM
The boys’ team was equally impressive, led by Chase Johnson, who claimed 1st place with a blazing time of 10:53.
- Desmond Hercun took 3rd at 11:04,
- Keagan Northam-Braun finished 4th in 11:08, and
- Carson Gushulak secured 5th with 11:31.
This dominant showing speaks volumes about the depth of talent and the competitive fire burning in these young athletes.
Junior Boys (Gr. 9/10) – 5 KM
As the distances increased, so did the challenge.
- Sam Silva powered through the 5 KM course to finish 4th in 22:13, while
- Kasmir Hercun followed in 5th at 25:20.
Their perseverance over the longer distance reflects the transition from middle school runners to seasoned competitors.
Senior Girls (Gr. 11/12) – 5 KM
The senior girls showed incredible resilience and heart.
- Jaylynn Derouard led the way with a 2nd place finish in 30:36,
- Kolby Anderson came in 3rd at 32:40, and
- Christina Soto Payares rounded out the top four with 32:51.
Their efforts were a powerful reminder that cross country is as much about mental toughness as physical strength.
From the first-place finish by Chase Johnson to the consistent top-five placements across every age group, the Saints proved that the legacy of excellence at STAHS is alive and thriving. These runners didn’t just compete, they inspired. They reminded us that cross country is a sport of quiet courage, where every step forward is earned through sweat, focus, and heart.
Watching this new generation of Saints take to the trails brought back memories of my own races, of pushing through pain, of hearing teammates cheer from the sidelines, of feeling the pulse of the forest beneath my feet. It’s a beautiful thing to see that same fire in today’s runners.
Congratulations to all the athletes who represented STAHS with pride and passion. You’ve made your school proud, and you’ve carried forward a tradition that means so much to those who came before you.
Keep running. Keep inspiring.
