When junior Ashley Martinez first stepped onto the bumpy hills as a new cross country runner, a wave of fear ran through her body. She was unaccustomed to distance running and the environment, leaving her shy and timid. 

Despite her rough beginnings, Martinez has managed to overcome these obstacles. Through countless conversations, cross-country meets or simply hanging out, she has created an inseparable bond with her teammates. 

“I was intimidated at first because I had just begun distance running and the idea of a one-mile warm-up was rather unnerving,” Martinez said. “But overtime, it became more enjoyable.”

In August of 2021, Martinez joined the team after cross country coach Carl Basey had asked her to after coaching her brother.

Being new to the team, she was short of any friendships or peers to guide her along the way.

“The other girls I was with had been running (together) since 6th grade so I felt really behind,” Martinez said.

But as the weeks passed by, Martinez began approaching her teammates and asking questions. As she continued stirring up conversations, she discovered how ‘responsive’ and ‘outgoing’ her teammates were. 

“We slowly grew that bond,” Martinez said. “I wouldn’t have to ask them many questions anymore … .”

Through these interactions, Martinez was able to meet and grow her friendships with girls on the team including sophomore Elizabeth Cox. 

Martinez explained that even while others enjoy talking while running together, she and Cox have developed a friendship where they are able to run even in silence. 

“You feel warm because you have this presence that’s running with you and that’s keeping you motivated,” Martinez said. 

On and off season, these girls participate in Winter conditioning and enjoy meeting up to eat together or doing fun activities, one being decorating pumpkins. 

Cox believes that having a strong foundation with these girls has not only made cross country more enjoyable, but it’s also sparked perseverance. 

“Being close to them and having them support me, it helps me during races and workouts,” Cox said.

Not only has the friendship amongst the teammates grown over the years, but Basey believes that Martinez has individually, as well.

“She has grown exponentially.” Basey said

Reflecting off of her freshman year, Basey has seen Martinez improve her running, but also become more outgoing as she encourages newcomers to run alongside her. 

“She’s gonna make a difference this year,” Basey said.