The DIS cross country teams gathered at Bongmu Lake to participate in the SKAIS (South Korea Association of International Schools) finals on Nov. 20. Despite the biting cold, runners delivered strong performances and wrapped up the season successfully. 

Unlike last year’s chaos and miscommunication, the administration contacted the city office well in advance to arrange banners and safety signs along the course, addressing potential hazards. 

“This year, we contacted the Donggu city office during summer break to finalize our plans and let them know beforehand. I tried to keep in close contact with them by communicating one month before, one week before, and one day before to make sure everything is well managed,” said Ms. Sumin Hong, the faculty and event services coordinator. 

Additionally, student volunteers from the Student Athletic Association Committee (SAAC) lined the trail to help with clear guidance. “It was really cold and freezing but I think it really paid off. No one got lost, and I also even helped an injured student while I was taking charge of the course,” said sophomore Jason Kim.

Before the runners departed, the Mini Jets organized a sendoff to build momentum and energy. “I felt really motivated when the mini jets and my friends cheered us on before we took off. I could feel how much support they had for us and was more determined to do better in the race,” said sophomore Sally Yun. 

Thanks to seamless coordination and efficient management early on, the races commenced promptly without delay. Shortly after the whistle blew, the elementary runners charged into the 3.2km trail with confidence built steadily throughout practices. 

In the boys division, fifth grader Yoon Cho claimed first place, followed by fourth grader Jason Lee in second. For girls, third grader Isabel Kim earned the third place medal. 

Kim’s strong internal motivation and consistent effort shone through in her performance. “I just really like running. I practice with my dad in my free time. Since running is just using your legs, I don’t need any skills. I think that’s really good,” said Kim. 

Immediately after the elementary division ceremony, the high school races kicked off. 

Moments before the whistle blew, runners corrected their form and waited in calm focus. When the race began, they all sprinted forward with their eyes fixed ahead for the 5km run.  

Right after the high schoolers, the middle schoolers prepared to take off. Despite immense pressure, sixth grader Allie Moon secured second place, a testament to her hard work and determination to break through challenges. “I didn’t know that I could be second place, and I was really thankful for that Mr. Coleman kept pushing me forward,” said Moon.  

Though not everyone earned a medal, many runners showed significant improvement and steady progress. “I was really glad when I reached a new personal record because I was training hard just for a new record. I wanted to prove to myself that I have improved from all the practice I did and that my efforts have paid off,” said sophomore James Kim. 

Falling just short of the podium, sophomore Jason McAteer came in fourth and set his new personal record. McAteer claimed third place in the SKAIS divisionals tournament at the International School of Busan (ISB) earlier this season and consistently maintained the top record on the team.

Displaying grit in their season’s finale, students ended the day on a high note. Their continued effort and perseverance pave the way for an even stronger comeback next year. “It was a fantastic season. It was the largest cross country team we’ve ever had in my 9 years coaching. Everyone set new personal records in their final meet and I’m so proud of everybody. I’m looking forward to next year,” said Coach Coleman.

Gallery • 4 Photos

Victoria Kang

A cohort of sixth graders gather and encourage one another before the races begin. Even in the biting cold, determination keeps the runners warm.