Yesterday, the OVS Cross Country League Championship took place at Soule Park, where I was honored to wear the school mascot, Spuddy. Wearing Spuddy is not easy, especially on a hot sunny day.

My only goal was to encourage the runners and stay out of trouble. The task was magically given to me after receiving 12 laps, which adds up quick if you don’t go to breakfast check-in.

Wearing Spuddy is a serious job. Giving high fives to all the runners was their most significant encouragement and was the only reason they pushed themselves further. Parents screaming their kids’ names couldn’t compete with the embracing slap of a potato’s hand.

Spuddy became an iconic figure for the team. My motive was to encourage all runners, but I may have come across in the wrong way to some. One girl, confused, looked at Spuddy and ran faster when he offered his encouragement.

After the race, I had the vital duty of handing out the medals to the top finishers. Some people didn’t like my costume, but the positivity outshone the disapproval.

Even though I wore the costume due to a mountain of laps, I played my part professionally and was even told by former Spuddy, Mr. Williams, that I did a great job.

P.C. Google