This year, Rosary cross country has had a great season filled with laughs and hard work. As it comes to an end, I wanted to highlight one of Rosary’s most impressive runners, Junior Belen Santiago.
Q: When did you start XC (cross country)?
A: I started cross country my sophomore year (2023). It was the second week of school, and I had recently found out about that sport, I just decided to try something new since I had never done sports before high school.
Q: What’s your biggest accomplishment in XC?
A: My biggest accomplishment in cross country would probably be placing second in my second race. Though I didn’t place first, I was able to get recognized by a coach from LMU, and they talked to me about recruitment for their school. It was the first college I’ve ever been recognized by.
Q: Who or what inspires you the most?
A: I think my coach, Coach Hills, inspires me the most. Though he keeps our practices hard, he motivates me to do my best and make the most out of each practice.
Q: What is the hardest thing in XC for you?
A: The hardest thing in cross country for me would probably be getting up to practice. I feel like cross country is a lot of physical activity, but mostly it’s the mentality that challenges me the most. The hardest part is just showing up.
Q: Would you like to pursue XC in college?
A: I would pursue cross country in college: I feel like it would be a way to stay active. I’ve also heard a lot of benefits about being a student-athlete in college.
Q: What is your favorite part about being an athlete?
A: My favorite part about being an athlete is my team/teammates. I love showing up to practice just to talk with my friends because it motivates me before a hard workout.
Q: How has faith played a role in your athletics?
A: Personally, I pray every time before a race. I feel like my faith has increased since I joined a sport: as long as I have God, I feel safe and ready to run.
Q: What is your fastest 5k time?
A: My fastest time for a 5k is 18.29.
Q: What was your hardest race this season?
A: Mt. Sac was the hardest race for me because it was really hot and hilly.
Q: What advice would you give someone starting XC and/or track?
A: For someone starting XC or track, I would say to just have fun. The meets are really fun, so try not to stress about a race and trust in God: once the gun fires, He will take the wheel. Further, find solace in knowing how much you’ve prepped for each race; try your best and give it your all.
We wish Belen all the best for her junior and senior year. Go Royals!
