Fast starting Socorro Cross Country teams to host Run-a-thon fundraiser

The Socorro Cross Country teams are off to a strong start this season. At the Silver City invite near Bayard, the girls varsity team placed first overall in their first meet of the season on Aug. 23.

“Everyone ran their hearts out--some securing near-best 5k times and others learning how to run through the discomfort of their first race ever. Best of all, they were responsible, caring, and helpful; and, when not racing, they were out on the course cheering for their teammates. These are truly delightful kids.” said Head Coach Beth Cadol, who had an endless supply of positivity for her runners.

Their second meet was the ATC Invite, which took place in Santa Fe this past Saturday. They didn’t bring home a team trophy, but Beth Cadol considers it a great meet. Abby Cadol placed 6th in the girls’ varsity race.

“We still crushed our previous times on the 3-mile course by minutes each.” Beth Cadol said.

They’re a big group with a combined 30 runners on the middle and high school teams, including some cross country rookies.

It takes some funds to keep all of the kids supplied for running, said Beth Cadol, and they are looking to get some support from the community. The teams encounter expenses for team shirts, handheld water bottles for new runners, and field trips.

“In the past, we’ve also been able to purchase duffel bags and jackets. The high school team is making a big push this year to fund an overnight trip to compete in a twilight meet in Arizona, which is something they are very excited about and that we’ve never done before.” Beth Cadol said.

They have two upcoming fundraising events planned to raise money for some of the items and to help cover the trip.

The Socorro High School and Middle School Cross Country teams are planning their second ever Run-a-thon for Saturday, Sept. 13, 7 a.m. to 7p.m.

“The Cross Country runners will be aiming to run one mile at the top of every hour for a total of 13 miles throughout the day,” said Beth Cadol.

This is an opportunity for community members to support these young runners financially and with an “encouraging presence.”

Community runners can participate in this event as well. Various activities will be set up for the time in between each mile.

“We hope you’ll stay and hang out with us for a while. Bring your kids, too, as this is a great opportunity to introduce the next ‘generation’ to the fun we have on the Cross Country team.” Beth Cadol said.

The Run-a-thon event will take place at the campus of New Mexico Tech, based at the gate where School of Mines and Leroy intersect. They won’t be able to accept card payments, but those wanting to sponsor a runner or simply donate can bring cash or a check made out to “SHS Cross Country” to the teams during the event.

About three weeks later, the team will host its first and only home meet for this fall season: the Socorro Stampede on Oct. 3 at 3:00 p.m. That meet will be held at the City of Socorro Rodeo Grounds and then be followed by a Community 5k fundraiser at 6:00 p.m. Register, donate, or do both at this website:

https://runsignup.com/Race/NM/Socorro/SSR5kFallSeries1.

“Come out early to watch the team race, and then they will cheer for you on the same course,” Beth Cadol said.