State representative Joe Graves recently recognized multiple members of the Fenton girls and boys cross country team for their recent accomplishments during the cross country season and at the All State competition. Awards were sent to runners who showed exceptional performance in running and sportsmanship.

“I was surprised that our state representative would take the time to write me a letter,” junior Jake Lee said. “It was an honor to be recognized for my accomplishments during the season. He also wished me luck with my future running career.”

Graves sent the letters without notifying the runners, and runners were surprised when they received the letters, and were unsure of what they were receiving when they opened them.

“Joe Graves sent the letter to the high school office where I received it,” junior Andrew Bond said. “It was a great honor to be recognized by someone who has enough influence around our community to be the in the House of Representatives and to be congratulated by him was amazing.”

Both girls and boys teams performed exceptionally well during the past season, with the boys coming in first at regionals and the girls coming in fifth at regionals.

“The season was great,” freshman Cami Tieman said. “It was so cool to be recognized for all of the hard work we put into the season. He took the time out of his busy day to send the letter and it meant a lot.”

Letters were received by both who showed outstanding performance in the All State meet and during the 2015 season.

“This season was really a breakthrough year for the team,” Bond said. “One of the most amazing things about it has been getting recognized for my hard work by people in office. I definitely won’t forget about the experience receiving it.”

Many cross country runners are also track runners, and indoor track practice is available for students looking to train for long and short distance after school from 2:45-4 pm. Outdoor track practice will also hold tryout the week of March 14th.