Audrey Williams
Online Sports Editor
Freshman Cara Chittenden is following her sister, senior Melia Chittenden, as the two hope to cement their legacies as runners at Costa.
The two began running with their family at a young age. They participated in local races with each other throughout elementary school, and now they both compete for Costa’s cross country team.
“Running has always been a fun activity for my family,” Cara said. “It started out as something just for fun, but I really began competing in middle school.”
Cara began running for Costa’s cross country team this fall. Only two months into her running career at Costa and Cara has already placed ninth out of 22 at Mt. Sac, one of the largest cross country races in California.
“Mt. Sac was my favorite race so far,” Cara said. “I got my [personal record] there which was a 19:22 in the standard three mile race.”
Both Chittendens got off to a quick start at Costa. Interesting enough, older sister Melia began running cross country at Costa as a sophomore. As soon as she joined, she knew she wanted to pursue running.
“Sophomore year my personal record was 18:43,” Melia said. “Now as a senior it’s 16:56.”
Both Melia and Cara credit their coach Renee Williams-Smith with much of their success. She recently has been inducted into the Costa Hall of Fame for her success as a coach and a pioneer as one of the first female cross country runners at Costa.
“Coach Renee inspires me because of her accomplishments she has made throughout her career,” Cara said. “Her encouragement and support has allowed me to grow as a runner so far this year.”
Along with their coach, both Chittendens inspire and push each other as well, whether it is competing to up their times or just giving each other insight. Being the older sibling, Melia has pushed Cara to get better quicker.
“Melia helps me with any questions I have about a race,” Cara said. “She encourages me to not only race well as an individual but team as well.”
Both Chittendens plan on continuing to run cross country after this season. Cara plans on staying on cross country for her remaining years at Costa. The experience she has had thus far, has not only pushed her physically but also introduced her to many new people.
“I know I want to stay on cross country for the rest of my time at Costa,” Cara said. “My goal for the rest of this season is to break 19:00.”
Older sister Melia also plans on continuing her running career collegiately. She hopes to qualify for state in both cross country and track and place in the top 10.
“Running is something I have become so passionate about,” Melia said. “Being able to run in college would be a dream come true.”
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