A cross-country runner scores points for his or her team equal to his or her finishing position in the race. Thus, a third place finish scores three points for the team. A team's first five runners score points, which are added together for the team's total score. The team with the lowest score wins the meet. Meet scores are usually rather close.
Individual competition is just as important as the team aspect of competition.
Each runner is constantly trying to improve upon his or her previous performance. This trail adds a very scenic challenge to the athletes during home meets. Overall, the home course is spectator-friendly, with an excellent view of the majority of the race. Generally, we will have one meet after school during the week, and an invitational meet every Saturday. These invitationals include a large number of teams, and top runners and teams are awarded ribbons, trophies, etc.