By Betty Gandee

Eleven cross country runners from Clay County High School had to privilege to attend a five-day camp.

Those in attendance were Serena Neal, Sharina Ratliff, Madelyn Kilpatrick, Chloe Jones, Virginia Haverty, Celina Humphrey, Zach Jarrett, Isaiah Spencer, Tanner Faulkner, Richard Triplett, and Brian Young.  These athletes attended the Country Roads Running Camp held at Black Bear resort in Canaan Valley. They spent their time learning how to improve their speed, distance, and endurance while running through the beautiful terrain of West Virginia. They ran through Blackwater Falls, Dolly Sods, and Seneca Rocks, some days running six miles at a time.

Throughout the week they participated in activities that taught them teamwork and leadership.  The camp was full of students from throughout the state and provided them all the opportunity to work closely with college coaches and athletes from different schools in West Virginia.

Two Clay County runners were recognized as Country Road Cup Champs. Tanner Faulkner and Sharina Ratliff were on teams that placed highest in points and received this honor. Sharina also received the Female Camper award.  The runners are appreciative of this opportunity that was made possible by the generosity of local businesses and the community. They will start at the Beckley Invitational on August 25 in brand new uniforms. Money raised for the uniforms came from a kayak raffle donated by Dr. Gabe Hubbard and proceeds of the paint with Quincy Mitchell fundraiser.