Sutton speeds her way to the top

Every year the men and women’s cross country teams anticipate their competition in the Peach Belt Conference.
With the Conference Meet in Panthersville, GA looming this weekend, the two teams look to some of their new recruits to lead the way. One of the new runners is Sophomore Crystal Sutton.
Sutton began running cross country for Georgia College and State University this year. During this very short season, Sutton has proven to be one of the most valuable assets to the team.
She was not planning on running this year until she decided to practice with the team early one morning.
“I definitely had no intention of waking up at 5:30 every morning for practice, but I’m getting used to it,” said Sutton.
Sutton graduated from Loganville High School where she participated in cheerleading, track and cross country. During her high school career, she broke and held the records for Loganville in the 800 meter and the 5K race.
Sutton’s role model is her high school coach, Kevin Reech. Sutton often attributes much of her success to him.
“He took me under his wing when I started running in high school and has always been an encouragement to me,” said Sutton.
Sutton’s attitude has been rewarded during her first season on the long courses. Sutton is one of only three women to hold a cross country individual record here at GC&SU.
“I just enjoy running and the competition makes it even better,” said Sutton.
Her dedication and love for the sport pay off during the races. Sutton has finished first in two out of the three 5K races she has competed in this year, placing her in the record book for the second fastest time in the history of GC&SU. She has also broken her own personal record with the time of 20:06 for the 5K race.
Sutton is a good runner, but her ambition, and hard work is apparent in and out of her running shoes.
“Next fall, I will be joining the cohort for middle grades education and I would love to continue running for GC&SU,” said Sutton.
Sutton and the rest of the Bobcat runners take their show on the road this weekend for the Peach Belt Conference Meet.

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Oct 24 2003. Filed under Sports. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry