Brooke French, Randall cross country, Jr.

On the course: The Randall Lady Raiders were running with purpose at the UIL Class 4A state meet at Old Settlers Park in Round Rock last Saturday. That purpose, was to show support for longtime, legendary cross country coach, Rebekah James, who will be retiring after 44 years at the end of the school year.

The Lady Raiders finished runner-up for a fourth time at the state meet under James and found the podium for an incredible 17th time. French was the highlight for Randall, as the junior pushed herself to a second-place finish to earn a silver medal holding off Canyon’s Presli Pool. French ran her best race of the season clocking a time of 11:15.1 for her best finish in Round Rock after two bronze medals in prior years.

Head coach Rebekah James: “This team ran a top race at the right time. We have worked hard all year and have gone through a lot, like a lot of teams do, but we were able to get back on the medal stand. Brooke ran like a beast. After two third place finishes in the past, she was feeling good and was determined to run her best. She had great workouts coming into state and ran ran relaxed. Her mindset was forcus and she emptied the tank to get that silver medal.”

French: “We had worked hard all summer and the fall preparing for state. We also had the motivation of wanting to run hard and leave everything we had for coach (Rebekah) James with this being her last year as our coach. Before the race, I knew the nerves were high, but I hadn’t run my best yet and I knew I was capable of doing it. I got on the line, and was focused to prove myself and leave it all out there.”

About French

Favorite band or musician: Ty Myers

Favorite social media platform: TikTok

Favorite athlete: Parker Valby

Bet you didn’t know: She loves the outdoors.

Parents: Kip and Melissa French.