As the lone senior on the women's cross country team, Alaynah Guthrie has embraced the opportunity to lead while carrying forward the positive energy of those who came before her.
 

Throughout her time at USCA, Guthrie has learned the importance of supporting those around her and maintaining a positive mindset through both the highs and lows of competition. Now in a leadership role, she strives to set that same example for her younger teammates and help create an encouraging environment within the team.

Guthrie reflected on a race last season when she passed out mid-race and her teammates stopped to make sure she was fine. While challenging in the moment, the experience became an empowering one for Guthrie and the team, showing just how strong the bond between them had become.

Just one race later, Guthrie used that experience as motivation to keep pushing, returning to competition and setting a new USCA school record in the 5K.

Watch the full Alaynah Guthrie interview to hear more about the experiences that have shaped her and the example she hopes to leave for those who follow.