After a long break and another meet in the books, Eastern’s cross country teams are continuing the strong performances, finishing 5th on the men’s side and 8th on the women’s side.

It was another strong showing for Eastern as the Panthers finished ahead of conference opponents Belmont and Murray State, as well as regional opponents like Illinois State.

This success has been a team effort, and a vital part of the team is senior runner Ivy Handley.

She has been running for Eastern for the last four years and wants to leave on a positive note. So far through the season she is doing just that.

At the recent Notre Dame invite, she placed at the 30th overall position with a time of 17 minutes and 50.1 seconds. This was one for her to remember.

“Personally Notre Dame was a step in the right direction; I ran a personal record time,” she said, “I learned a few lessons too, specifically to start well.”

During the two week break, Handley did not feel great for a while, but she recovered just in time to have a successful race at Notre Dame.

“I did not feel so great through a lot of the break. So, I am really excited to see how much better I could do in the races to come when I feel better.”

She showed great determination by performing at such a high level this past Friday, and she has her own ways of mentally preparing for meets, but it was a little more difficult with the longer break.

“I keep busy with school work and enjoy the process of getting better with practice,” she said, “ I mentally prepare by working on homework, jamming to Andy Grammer and watching Netflix.”

When it comes to the time leading up to race day she has her own routine and methods of preparation as does any athlete.

“I remind myself throughout the day to drink lots of water, because it is time to perform, and have some fun.”

Alex Hartman can be reached at 581-2812 or aihartman@eiu.edu.