Running Behind

Running Behind — page 3 — One hundred percent Shawn Shawn pulled off the headband holding back his long wavy hair and gave Coach Dave a thumbs-up Ready Coach Don’t grow any taller in the next few days or you’re going to lose a lot of time ducking under every tree branch on that course Yessir I mean no sir No growing Ready Tony Tony was rooting around in the bottom of the backpack he’d pulled off the picnic table He held a flattened granola bar in one hand Ready Coach You going to pack that bag full of snacks for the trip I was thinking I might need a bigger one Coach Dave chuckled You could be right Ready Sam Sam nodded Ready Coach 2 Sylvia Taekema

Running Behind — page 4 — No projects planned No assignments assignments due My schedule is clear for takeoff Right Ready Spencer Always ready to run Good We’re going to miss Paul but we’re glad to have you on board Finally Coach Dave turned to look at the boy beside him So Simon think this bunch is ready Jake watched Simon push up his glasses and look around the circle of sweaty boys gathered in the parking lot They had just finished their final cross country practice before the provincial race in Barry’s Bay Simon locked eyes with Jake and grinned It’s a dream team best I’ve seen hot as lava cool as ice cream Coach Dave laughed Good to know you’re ready too Mr Assistant Coach Well that’s it then We’ll see you Friday morning Eat well sleep well 3 Running Behind

Running Behind — page 5 — pack light As the boys started to gather their stuff he continued Don’t forget your team jerseys You guys are the regional silver medalists You’re going to the provincials You have earned this opportunity through dedication determination talent and hard work Do your region proud Do your team proud Do yourselves proud Shawn wiped an imaginary tear from his cheek That was beautiful Coach The coach smiled Now get out of here Sam high-fived his teammates and started walking home Spencer and Simon jogged to the bus stop Shawn and Tony headed to the variety store across the road Jake went to unlock his bike What do you think Jake asked Coach Dave About what The team the weekend the race 4 Sylvia Taekema

Running Behind — page 6 — Jake closed his eyes The race was all he’d been thinking about since the moment they found out they’d qualified qualified His whole body felt like it was buzzing It’s going to be awesome I can’t wait Me neither said the coach Tony’s got so much power and Shawn can cover a lot of ground with those long legs of his Sam’s so speedy and so smart about how he runs a race and Spencer he’s just so smooth He runs so easily So fast No worries or hang-ups hang-ups It’s like nothing can throw him off He loves to run that’s for sure But don’t downplay your own part in this Jake If I know you you’ll find your way up front I’ve got to admit I like our chances You guys have got heart Plus we’ve got a secret weapon We do Simon’s jokes Coach Dave high fived Jake and got into his van 5 Running Behind

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