The Taylorville Kiwanis Club heard from the Taylorville Junior High Cross Country coach, and 5 of his team members at their weekly meeting at the Taylorville Moose Lodge on Tuesday.

Chad Sutton, a runner himself, is in his 3rd year leading the Taylorville Junior High School Cross Country team which consists of 15 members.  5 of the members accompanied Sutton at Tuesday’s Kiwanis meeting.

Girls’ captain Julia Chlebus told the club her goal was to make it to state.  She achieved that and finished among the top runners.  

Team member Elayna Harker told Kiwanis membership her cross country career hit pause after an injury.

Team member Zach Wright said running is in his family's blood.

Team member Joseph Goodman told club membership it's important to have a positive mindset before a race.

And, team member Liam Bettis shared that cross country is a school sport that doesn't get a lot of attention.

Sutton bragged on the team saying they've all improved the last few years.

The Taylorville Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.  Weekly meetings are held Tuesdays at noon at the Taylorville Moose Lodge.  For information on the club, go to taylorvillekiwanis.com.