GRANTS, N.M. - For Kingston Martinez, being a part of the Grants High School cross country team is about more than simply running. When races become difficult, Martinez has learned different ways to keep himself focused and push through the harder moments.
When asked what goes through his mind when he starts feeling tired during a race, Martinez explained that he tries to distract himself.
“Sometimes I’ll think of a random word and just repeat the letters in it,” Martinez said.
Before a big race, Martinez prepares mentally by setting a goal for himself. He uses his past experiences to help him decide what he wants to accomplish.
“I usually just think about my past races, and then try to maybe think of a time I’m going to get, and that’s it,” Martinez said.
Cross country has also taught Martinez an important lesson that he can carry into other parts of his life. He believes that hard work and effort can make a difference when someone is willing to push themselves.
“Good things can happen when you really put in the work,” Martinez said.
Although running can sometimes feel like an individual sport, Martinez said the relationships between he and his teammates are an important part of the experience.
“I would say we’re pretty close. We are a really good team and we work well together,” Martinez said.
Martinez also believes there is something about cross country that people who do not run may not understand.
“There’s a difference between showing up to just run and showing up to actually run,” Martinez said.
Even with all the hard work and training, Martinez has some fun preferences when it comes to racing. If he could have one food waiting for him at the finish line every time, he would choose something simple.
“A bag of Hot Fries,” Martinez said, with a smile.
When it comes to music, Martinez also has a specific choice for his races. If he could listen to only one artist while running, he would choose Jhene Aiko.
For Martinez, cross country is not just about running the distance. It is about learning how to push through difficult moments, putting in the work and relying on the people around him.
The Grants cross country team will finally hit the trail for the first time this season on Saturday, September 12 at Ramah High School.