Guy wrote:
I trained harder than I ever have in my life during the summer, over 650 miles. This XC season, my junior year but my first XC season (I came over from soccer) I only ran 17:52 and I was expecting much much more... more like low 17's or possibly very high 16's. My teamates who didn't do anything over the summer are running mid to high 18's. THIS IS NOT FAIR! I just need to rant right now because I am angry.
One thing I've learned is that TRAINING RARELY GOES UNREWARDED. I wouldn't be surprised if you took a suddenly unexpected "leap" next year....or during track this school year.
I trained my tail off in my high school junior too (understatement), but it was my senior year when I hit a whole new level. It was definitely due to the previous year's hard work. Just keep it going and do not use it as an excuse to slack off, because it will pay off. But you're right, it is frustrating....until the rewards come in.