Picnic Time

Today the Varsity squad met up with the coaches at Forest Park for an important workout and to solidify a tradition. The workout was the renowned Oregon 8. The tradition was the Oregon 8 Picnic.

Following the trend of the month, it was an absolutely gorgeous day. We were so happy for this because it was miserable last year. We warmed-up to the visitors’ center and passed some Ruggerfest action on the way. Instead of the normal back-and-forth skips we did skips in a straight line across the oasis.

The workout was altered from the Oregon 8s of the past. It was no longer 1200 5k 1200 5k 1200. This year coach cut the 1200s and the first 5k was at tempo pace. So not as super extreme as it once was but definitely not a walk in the park. We ran on the MCC highway course, 3 mile loops (with 400 splits!!) plus the 200m finish. Everyone was right on pace for the first 5k. Scherping lead the pack as he only had to run the first one. After the 15 minute break, we headed back to the line for a second 5k. It was a battle but we all buckled down and ran this one faster. A successful day on an important workout.

After the cool down, it was time for the 2nd Annual Oregon 8 Picnic. The Oregon 8 Picnic was created by DeSmet XC greats Joe Gibson & Blake Bender last year. Everyone brings something and then we eat and hang out for awhile. Last year we had plenty of food, but the poor weather cut the picnic short. This year it was an overwhelming success as we ate our fill and had a blast. Chocolate Milk, sandwiches, fruit, chips, brownies, Rice Krispie Treats, and Gatorade. Coach Traughber stayed around for awhile as there was no way he could pass up on this good stuff.
Quote of the Day: “One more mile till the picnic!”- Coach Traughber as Abernathy came through the 2 mile of the second 5k.

Joke of the Day: “200s? That’s child play. We’re starting with tempos.”- Coach Traughber in response to if Hannah was going to be running 200 repeats soon.

Best Dressed: Kabes edged out O’Connor as in the words of Coach Russo he was able to match non-school issued gear. Matt had the old school DeSmet uniform. Kevin started with light-weight sleeves that matched his shorts. For the workout he stripped down to the Boyle-tribute MST shorts and the sleeveless Nike top that matched the stripe. Big time for the big workout.