It doesn’t seem like that far — just 3.1 miles, or a bit more than 12 laps around the high school’s track.

But when you head into the woods, then across asphalt pavement, wet grass and mud, all the while competing against equally outstanding high school runners eager to leave you in the dust, well that’s what makes cross country one of the fall’s most exhilarating sports.

The girls

South Whidbey High cross country coach Doug Fulton was pleased with the way the girls have prepared for the grueling season ahead.

“They worked very hard this summer and several had 100-percent attendance at summer practices,” Fulton noted. “Erica Johnson logged over 350 miles. Twins Cassie and Courtney Bosman have improved a great deal over their freshman season,” he said.

“The girls are young but have a great deal of talent. If we can stay healthy we will be a tough team come November,” Fulton added.

Over the last four years, the girls have been district champs twice, and taken second and third place at state finals in Pasco. The 2005 season was the first in 17 years the girls missed the cut.

“Our goal is to repeat as league champs, return to state and place in the top four. At a minimum,” Fulton said.

In a coach’s pre-season poll, South Whidbey was rated fifth out of 10 Northwest running schools, but as of Saturday, they’re up to third.

Top returners include Katy Gordon (15th at state in 2005), Johnson, the Bosman twins and Caroline Habel.

“We have an excellent chance of competing at state in Pasco,” said Gordon, who is also South Whidbey’s ASB president this year.

“That would be huge. There’s a distinct and very real positive attitude and all the girls are close,” she said.

District 1 is the most competitive 2A district in the state with five ranked teams in preseason poll on the girls side, and teams such as No. 1 Sehome, No. 2 Burlington Edison, No. 3 Bellingham, and No. 5 Lakewood competing in boys cross country.

Sadly, Lakewood’s top runner Scott Skiles died in a car accident Sept. 5 — Fulton, Johnson and Steven Gabelein represented South Whidbey at the funeral.

The boys

The boys too have a sterling record — twice district champs, taking ninth and second in state in 2002 and 2003.

A strong commitment by this year’s team prompted Fulton to hope for a strong showing in the league and a serious challenge for a state berth.

“I’m feeling very enthusiastic,” said senior Jason Fitz.

Last spring’s hamstring troubles have gone away and Fitz feels strong.

“Last year we had more talent because of JD (Pearl). But I see us as eight solid runners that can make it to the top 15. The difference between the guys at the top and everyone else is a lot less. We’re a much better team,” he said.

Runners worked out in the summer and they’re in good shape.

“I admit we’re a little nervous, but we are ready to go,”

Fitz said.

Top returners include Fitz and Kurt Warwick, plus juniors Eric Stallman and Nick Rovang.

“The boys are improving and will contend for a state berth. We have some talented athletes who — with consistent training — will be very good,” Fulton said.

The 2006 cross country South Whidbey Invite on Sept. 16 will be the largest in history with 31 teams and around 1,000 athletes scheduled to participate.

The Invite begins with a community/open race at 10 a.m., with the high school competition following at 11 a.m.