Cross Country Trail Mix

1 January 2026Nita Q & Layla R, XC Co-Captains

The 2025 XC season started off strong, with our runners preparing for the competitive season by participating in the Cowichan Valley Running Series: three races through which runners aimed to gain a snazzy t-shirt and qualify for the Island Championships.

After the local races, the team qualified for the Island Championships, where they embraced true Brentwood grit and achieved spectacular results. A brutal race in relentless rain and heavy mud saw Hudson VT and the Senior Girls’ team (Layla R, Nita Q, Ava H & Miyabi S) qualify for the Provincial Championships, hosted at Arbutus Meadows in Nanoose Bay, where we raced in a torrential downpour once again.

From finding a decrepit car, to running up actual mountains and the dreaded Mill Bay Hill Bay, to getting ambushed by stinging nettles and chased by dogs, there was hardly a normal day of training. This term also had us questioning if we had signed up for cake eating or cross-country running. Between gruelling practices, we made frequent trips to get ice cream, convinced our coaches that slushies were medically necessary, and found any excuse to eat cake.

Among the major highlights were smaller moments that became memorable traditions. Disc golf at our local course was a favourite. At every race, there were hair ribbons in ponytails, high-fives, and celebratory archways. There were many beautiful destination runs, valuable team bonding and great competitive success. Every member of our group was dedicated to improving their speed and endurance while also enjoying the program’s unique culture and traditions.

We are immensely proud of this team and are so grateful for the support from Mr Skardal and Mrs Reynolds. Under their guidance, this season was one of grit and joy, with many miles and even more smiles.

Nita Q & Layla R, XC Co-Captains

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