First Race Narrative

INDENT It was my first race of the season on the no-cut cross country team and when I crossed the finish line, I nearly collapsed. By the next race, I knew that I wanted to improve. After the second race, I looked at my time and as usual, I came in last place. Having the least athletic experience on the team, it did not surprise me. However, what came as a shock to me was that it would be a personal win.
INDENT The starting gun fired and it felt as if everything was in slow motion. The clatter of sneakers against the gravel snapped me from my daze. As the pack of varsity and JV girls flew past me, I knew that this race would be just like the last. I was going to come in last place yet again.
INDENT After the first lap, I could feel sweat pouring down my face. The gravel path was coming up and I was ready to sprint up it. My foot slipped on one of the rocks, but despite the stumble, I somehow remained upright and kept running.
INDENT I regretted forgetting to take my allergy medicine. The smell of freshly cut grass infiltrated my nostrils. Soon it would not stop running and thankfully I had tissue in my pocket. Although, a funny take-away from that was that all of the pictures taken from that day were of me holding a tissue.
INDENT The finish line was
Three minutes! After only one race, it never crossed my mind that I could improve that much. That day, I was more determined than ever to stay on the team. Many girls quit the team before I arrived and being the slowest on the team, I felt some pressure to leave. Thankfully, I stayed and because I came to practice every day and gave my all during races, I improved my personal best. Whenever I feel discouraged about my progress I think about that race and it gives me a sense of comfort. It was the reason that pushed me to prove to myself and to the team that even though I was the slowest, I was willing to work hard and better