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The Story of Legacyme3
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The Story of Legacyme3

 

04-05-12 11:20 PM
legacyme3 is Offline
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legacyme3
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Legacyme3. Innovator. Idol. God.

So many words could be used to describe this man... but you won't hear more of it.

Because cheeseburgers.

Yes. Cheeseburgers.

See, I expected you came in here to read about how awesome I am. And who can blame you.

But unfortunately for you, the story is completely unrelated, and I'm just wasting your time. So yeah, story is below.

-------------------------------------------

Hank was a fan of racing. He had always loved feeling the wind in his hair. Every practice was a moment of prayer... race day was his holiday. Nothing could stop him from going out and doing what he loved to do.

Hank wasn't bad either. He was actually one of the better runners anyone at his school had ever seen. There was only one issue... he was a senior. He was graduating. This was his last season with his favorite people. His last season to win a title.

See, last year, Hank had come close. He finished in 10th for the team, and it would have been enough if it weren't for a complete underdog team coming out of nowhere to beat them by 1 measly point. That 1 point haunted Hank for the entirety of the offseason... and it seemed to affect his team as well.

This year... he was going to do whatever he could to make it to the top. He didn't care WHO he had to climb over, as long as he did it.

There were some new faces at practice when he came by after school. He was legitimately surprised by who came this year. He also saw a familiar face... one who wasn't on last year's team... in fact, he knew this guy from somewhere, but couldn't put his finger on it.

"Hi, I'm Dave. I went to Riverbrook last year." he said as he approached Hank. "You probably don't really remember me, but I was the 5th best runner on last year's championship team. I hope it's ok that I join your team. We moved this summer."

"Oh, of course, feel free." Hank said as he remembered where he saw that face. It was the face of last year's 5th runner, who had sealed the win for Riverbrook last season with an impressive finish. The fact he was here already gave them a powerful asset to work with.

"Oh, and a word of advice, this year's team at Riverbrook looks even stronger than last year's team." he said as he walked off to be with the rest of the team.

This wasn't a great sign... nor was it a great start to a season where he wanted to finally get that championship.

Over the course of the first practice, Hank learned the new member's names, and got a good estimation of the skills. They were missing a few people... last year's number 2 and 3 runners, the Broteski twins. They had graduated and left the captaincy in Hank's hands. They were also missing several of the JV runners, who admittedly were less than stellar.

Although he also found some real gems in the new freshmen. Matt, who was a top runner in Middle School was excellent as expected. He would be Varsity by year end, and so would one of the other freshmen, a tall lanky kid named Victor. Victor didn't LOOK like a runner, but as Hank could tell you, looks don't mean everything. When Hank was a freshman... he was on the rather large side. No one ever thought he'd be the best runner on the team, let alone a runner at all.

Practice went on as per usual, and nothing happened for a few days. It was a basic high school life, and being the first week of school, the classes were mostly introductory.

But after a week or so, things started... bumpily. But they started.

It was time for the first race of the season. Everyone was healthy. Everyone was ready to go. And hey, even rival Riverwood was at this race. They seemed to be taking the race pretty non-chalantly, starting only 7 guys, 2 of which were involved with the team last year.

Hank walked up and asked to see the Riverwood captain. Apparently, the captain wasn't even here. He had more important things to do, and couldn't be bothered to come cheer the team on. When asked if it bothered them, the Riverwood runners were very quiet, and didn't offer any sort of opinion one way or the other.

The race was about to start. Hank returned to the line. Then he noticed something odd about the Riverwood team... was it coincidence?

He whispered in Matt and Dave's ears to let Riverwood jump out in front... he noticed they were wearing spikes on the first race of the season.

The gun shot off, and as expected, Riverwood's 7 runners all jolted out to the top 7 spots in no time. It was amazing to think that in one year they go from being an underdog to being the superpower team that everyone wants to beat. Several runners kept up with them, but Riverwood was running dangerously. They clogged the lanes, and the spikes threatened anyone from passing them.

After the half-way point, things got easier for Hank, Dave, and Matt, as they pretty much stuck together to come in behind the Riverwood pack. Hank's confidence was fading. He knew this race was a loss, but he was thinking in the grander scheme. With the championship only 10 races away, there wouldn't be much time to improve.

They needed a miracle to happen.

That miracle was nowhere to be seen in the first race, as Riverwood came out and swept the competition. Goldenrod (the name of Hank's school) had finished 3rd, as the 4 and 5 runners had poor races. Hank, Matt, and Dave had finished right behind the Riverwood team, but it wasn't enough to take 2nd.

Finally, the Riverwood captain had arrived, and he berated his team for not sticking to the "plan", whatever that was. He then walked over to Hank (who he had beaten in last year's race) and confidently boasted of his team, "I hope you realize those aren't our Varsity runners. That's our JV team."

He walked off, and all Hank could do was stand there slack-jawed.

JV runners? Just how strong has Riverwood gotten?

A couple weeks passed, and there was minimal improvement from the runners. Hank was a veritable ace, as usual, and Dave and Matt were improving steadily as well. Those 3 would have no problems in a championship race... but the 4 and 5 spots would need to be filled by someone.

There was a disturbance on the football team. As the cross country team had started stretching for a run, one of the players (on the football team) had a violent outburst against another member of the team. Hank got up, told the others to keep stretching, and walked over to see what the disturbance was. As it turns out, Jon (the player who attacked the other) was being kicked off the team for his over-aggresiveness with other players. Jon didn't take it kindly, and speared the team captain, who was rather large. Suddenly, Hank had either the best or worst idea ever.

"How would you like to join the Cross-Country team?" Hank asked.

"ha. No thanks. Running is for sissies." he declared, as he started walking back to the school to change.

"How about this then, I'll send my worst varsity runner up against you. If you can't beat him, then you have to join. If you win, then you are free to go." Hank said as he tried to goad Jon into a race.

"You have some nerve. Send your best. It still won't be enough." he boasted.

"That would be me. The captain. I don't want to embarrass you." Hank brushed off Jon. In secret, he was just trying to goad Jon more... he didn't care who beat him.

"You won't. Five mile race from here to the coffee shop."

"That's fine with me... just let me tell my team to go wait for me there." Hank left to go tell the team what he was thinking. Despite some objections, there was surprising support from Matt and Dave.

Matt had gotten up first, "I may be one of the frosh, but it's pretty clear that guy has athleticism. He'd make a great runner if we trained him from the ground up."

Then Dave offered his take, "He may be a tad violent, but he can't do anything but help at this juncture. Plus, second chances are important in life. Just one question, Hank. Can you beat him?"

Hank was fairly certain about it, but didn't want to down his opponent further. He had gotten the race, now he just needed to finish it.

The race was a go.

I wish I could say something interesting about it, but it was never close. Hank got out to a fast lead and never let go. Jon was no slouch, but he lacked the conditioning required to pace himself. Once Jon crossed the finish line, Hank handed him an iced coffee.

"Good race, I'll see you at practice tomorrow." Hank said as he got ready to leave.

"No you won't." said Jon gasping for breath

"We had a deal. Remember?" said Hank.

"Oh, I intend to fulfill it. Just give me a chance to catch my breath so I can start today. It ain't as easy as it looks."

Hank smirked, and told the team to just stay loose so Jon could join them for practice. He would need a lot of work, but Jon was a very athletic man, and he would be certain to be of some help.

---------------------

It had been a month since Jon joined the team, and the team had a strong sense of unity. They had 3 top runners, and Jon was on his way to becoming the 4th. It was during this time that Hank decided they needed more firepower.

But where could he enlist the help he needed?

He was sure he was going to hate himself for it... but he went to the Soccer team. The soccer team at Goldenrod was terrible. Winless this season with no hope of making the playoffs. The team was not united, and the star player, Ricardo was not helping matters. He often times ran from one end to the other, stealing the ball from his own teammates. He was a fast runner, and in an individual sport like Cross Country, would be a big asset for the team.

"So I hear you are missing the playoffs Ricardo."

"Bite me, Hank."

Hank and Ricardo never got along. Both being seniors, they had had to put up with each other the last four years. Hank's team was successful, Ricardo's was not. There was too much fire to forge a real friendship.

"I can offer you a chance to win." Hank said

"Getting right to business are we? You must think I'm an idiot. Why would I give up the best sport in the world to just run of all things."

"Because you'd be good at it, and you don't have to worry about team-mates bringing you down. You'd have a solid chance to win every time out, and again, wouldn't be affected by your team."

"But it's boring. Who cares about winning if you don't have a challenge?" Ricardo denied to recognize running, his rivals sport, as equal to his own.

"To each their own I suppose. But you haven't won anything with this team. If I remember correct, you haven't even won a single game since joining the soccer team." Hank sneered

The coach walked over, and berated Ricardo and Hank for having attitudes. Then he said out of the corner of his mouth a phrase so quiet, you may have mistook it for the wind.

"You can always be a two sport athlete. The soccer games are an hour and a half before races take place." and then walked off.

Ricardo thought it over, and said, "I'd get to win and be on the soccer team right?"

"Yeah, I suppose, if you really want to strain yourself."

"And you would understand Soccer comes first, right?"

"Of course."

Ricardo nodded, and walked off. He didn't say another word, and another wasn't needed. Hank got his 5th ringer.

--------------------------------------

But disaster was looming. It was a rainy day, and they were running on a hilly course. Riverwood was again in attendance, and this time brought out the same 7 JV runners as the last race.

Hank, Dave, and Matt were on the line. Ricardo wasn't here yet, nor was it thought he'd make it in time. Jon looked a little uneasy to be in his first race.

The gun shot. Ricardo did not make it in time. Or did he? He got on the line literally a second before the race started. Ricardo jumped out so fast, Hank had to catch up to warn him about Riverwood.

Hank hadn't realized it at the time, but Ricardo was likely going to end up the team's top runner with his speed potential. Hank caught up and quickly warned him about Riverwood, but at this point, his leg buckled out from under him.

One of the Riverwood runners had intentionally tripped him. and in the muddy situation, Hank had no choice but to fall forward, hitting his knee off one of the rocks. His day was over, and his season was on life support.

-------------------------

"So how is it Doc?" he asked.

"Not good, you'll probably be out 2-3 months. That was a real nasty injury..."

"That's no good. I need to be back in a month."

"Surely you jest... There is just no way. If you did, you'd just get injured again."

"I will come back, and I WILL not get injured."

-------------------------

From that point on, Hank sat by and watched his team during practice, during races, and offered whatever help he could. Dave and Matt were veritable aces. They could challenge Riverwood's 3 and 4 at this point. Jon was making amazing progress, he was already the 5th runner, and was starting to catch up to Matt and Dave. As for Ricardo... he was rarely seen at practice, and he missed his last race. The regional race.

Regionals was scarring for Hank. They barely qualified for the state meet. It was a sunny day, and 2 of the top 5 weren't on the line. Riverwood brought out their varsity this time, and Hank used the opportunity to scout them.

Riverwood really was stronger than last year. 15:30. 15:45. 15:57. 16:44. 16:45. The top 5 blazed in, without any opposition for the most part. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Comparitively, Goldenrod had the 6, 7, and 8 spots. Dave, Matt, and Jon. 16:49. 16:58. 17:12.

Ricardo normally slotted in around 15:50. And Hank normally got the very same. They had a fierce rivalry. But fierce or not... in a straight up race, Riverwood had them beat. Ricardo and Hank needed to beat the number 2 guy, and Matt and Dave needed to break 16. Jon just needed to get below 17.

Time was running out. Two weeks until the state championships... and Hank wasn't ready yet.

What were they going to do...

-----------------------------

A week passed, and Hank went to the Doctor.

Still not ready. He was making remarkable progress, but was unable to get fully ready. He had one more week to get medically cleared to compete.

Hank stretched every second of the weekend. He walked so as to strengthen his muscles. He did literally everything one could to get better.

Hank had one more checkup. The day before the Championship.

-----------------------------

The doctor smiled.

"Your recovery is complete. I'm amazed you were able to heal in record time." He signed a form telling Hank he was medically able, and had it submitted to the coach just in time to get on the team for states.

---------------------------

The day of states arrived, and tension was in the air. It was a perfect day for running. Everyone was excited. Matt was running in his first states race. Dave was getting a chance to show up his former team. Ricardo was actually early to the race, saying that a state championship was more important than the potential of winning his first soccer game. Jon was healthy, and for the first time since joining the team, looked like a runner. They had gone a long way to this moment. A long road.

And Hank was finally healthy. It was assumed Hank wouldn't be a threat to compete, but he did a light jog and felt perfect. He ate right the night before, and he legitimately thought he could place top 10. Which was all they needed.

The runners got on the line, and they heard the gun shot.

The time had come to finish the season.

There was a cluster**** of runners going into the first turn. Over 80 of the best runners in the state were all still in it. Anyone could win this. Riverwood's starting 7 jetted out to a fast start, and Goldenrod's top 5 were not far behind. Ricardo was even showing his first signs of wanting to be there.

Hank even felt relatively healthy. Going across the first mile, he was a little on the slow side, but he was playing it safe. At this point Riverwood had 5 in the top 8, and Goldenrod had 2. Dave and Matt. It was going to be tough to catch up, but there was still a chance.

Dave and Matt had pulled too far ahead of Hank for him to reasonably catch up, and Ricardo was saving energy, so they ran together for a little while. During this time, Jon caught up, and they had a ball running as a group for the first time. Jon, the football star who had an attitude issue, was having fun being part of something and not being angry. Ricardo, the soccer show off, had shown signs of being a fantastic team player. Little did he know that the Soccer team finally had their first win. Maybe this was his sport all along. And Hank, he was getting stronger as the race went on.

Finally he broke the silence around the end of the second mile. "Let's catch up to those two. Can't have them steal all the fun."

Ricardo and Jon could only nod. It was time to start the counter attack.

At the end of the second mile, Riverwood had the top 3. Then Matt and Dave. Then 2 more Riverwood runners sandwiched between 4 other runners from other schools. Then came the trio of Hank, Jon, and Ricardo.

It was the fastest mile they ever ran. Ricardo was going under 5 for this mile... and Hank was somehow keeping up. Whereas for Jon, he was fading, but still in the race.

The finish line never smelled so good to them. A championship was still a possibility, and there was no way they would be content with second. At the very least, this team would go on to another race at a regionals race for Nationals. And Nationals was a distinct possibility. A VERY distinct possibility. Especially if Hank could get back to old form.

The finish line was set, and the first crossed the finish line. It was Riverwood's Captain. Who came in with a record time for the event. Following him was a real upset.

Dave and Matt had grown as a unit, and really hit it off as friends. And they stuck together the entire race. Now was a true test. Who was the better runner? They started their push. No one was close. They were going to finish 2nd and 3rd, but no one knew who would be where between them. Matt took a quick lead. Then Dave caught up. And then Matt passed him back. There was enough back and forth action for sure... it would need a photo finish.

When all was said and done, even the photo couldn't decide. They both crossed the finish line at the exact same time. There was no idea how to rule it. So it was left off to the side.

A Riverwood runner came in, so Riverwood and Goldenrod were tied.

It would all come down to Hank and his group. As they passed a Riverwood runner, Jon slowed down further to keep pace with him. As they passed another, Ricardo and Hank sped up. They were not content to hold pace with the 4th Riverwood runner. They needed to pass the third. And they would not lose to each other.

Hank started to hurt though. He was healthy, but this was his first race in a long time... he wasn't in perfect shape. Once Ricardo noticed this, he pat Hank on the back. "Don't stress yourself too much. When you heal up for the next race we'll have our showdown then." and raced forward.

A couple of runners from other schools passed, and then came Ricardo.

A couple more runners from other schools came in, and then came both Hank and the 3rd and 4th Riverwood runners. The 3rd and Hank blew by the 4th in the final stretch, as he just didn't have the energy. Hank beat out the 3rd by a very close margin of 3 seconds.

Then came the 4th, and it all came down to the last runners.

Jon slowed down and couldn't pass the 5th, but he had the best race of his career, as well as his first ever top 15 finish.

The final score looked like this

Riverwood - 1, 4, 11, 12, 13
Goldenrod - 2, 3, 7, 10, 15

Total score Riverwood - 41, Goldenrod - 37.

Goldenrod beat out Riverwood by a whole 4 points. (In running, the lower scores win.)

A mob of cameras took pictures as Hank couldn't believe what they had done. No more accurately, what he had done. He was so modest he wouldn't realize it, but it was he who brought this team a championship. He convinced Jon and Ricardo to join the team, he got Dave and Matt clicking on the same page. He had gotten himself back on the field.

They had one last group huddle before accepting their state title. This was the last time Hank would run with this team. Well... not last. But the last time they will run together with the goal of winning states.

They had grown up a lot this season. And Hank was proud to be a member of the team.

They beat the powerhouse. They avenged their loss from last year. All was well.
Legacyme3. Innovator. Idol. God.

So many words could be used to describe this man... but you won't hear more of it.

Because cheeseburgers.

Yes. Cheeseburgers.

See, I expected you came in here to read about how awesome I am. And who can blame you.

But unfortunately for you, the story is completely unrelated, and I'm just wasting your time. So yeah, story is below.

-------------------------------------------

Hank was a fan of racing. He had always loved feeling the wind in his hair. Every practice was a moment of prayer... race day was his holiday. Nothing could stop him from going out and doing what he loved to do.

Hank wasn't bad either. He was actually one of the better runners anyone at his school had ever seen. There was only one issue... he was a senior. He was graduating. This was his last season with his favorite people. His last season to win a title.

See, last year, Hank had come close. He finished in 10th for the team, and it would have been enough if it weren't for a complete underdog team coming out of nowhere to beat them by 1 measly point. That 1 point haunted Hank for the entirety of the offseason... and it seemed to affect his team as well.

This year... he was going to do whatever he could to make it to the top. He didn't care WHO he had to climb over, as long as he did it.

There were some new faces at practice when he came by after school. He was legitimately surprised by who came this year. He also saw a familiar face... one who wasn't on last year's team... in fact, he knew this guy from somewhere, but couldn't put his finger on it.

"Hi, I'm Dave. I went to Riverbrook last year." he said as he approached Hank. "You probably don't really remember me, but I was the 5th best runner on last year's championship team. I hope it's ok that I join your team. We moved this summer."

"Oh, of course, feel free." Hank said as he remembered where he saw that face. It was the face of last year's 5th runner, who had sealed the win for Riverbrook last season with an impressive finish. The fact he was here already gave them a powerful asset to work with.

"Oh, and a word of advice, this year's team at Riverbrook looks even stronger than last year's team." he said as he walked off to be with the rest of the team.

This wasn't a great sign... nor was it a great start to a season where he wanted to finally get that championship.

Over the course of the first practice, Hank learned the new member's names, and got a good estimation of the skills. They were missing a few people... last year's number 2 and 3 runners, the Broteski twins. They had graduated and left the captaincy in Hank's hands. They were also missing several of the JV runners, who admittedly were less than stellar.

Although he also found some real gems in the new freshmen. Matt, who was a top runner in Middle School was excellent as expected. He would be Varsity by year end, and so would one of the other freshmen, a tall lanky kid named Victor. Victor didn't LOOK like a runner, but as Hank could tell you, looks don't mean everything. When Hank was a freshman... he was on the rather large side. No one ever thought he'd be the best runner on the team, let alone a runner at all.

Practice went on as per usual, and nothing happened for a few days. It was a basic high school life, and being the first week of school, the classes were mostly introductory.

But after a week or so, things started... bumpily. But they started.

It was time for the first race of the season. Everyone was healthy. Everyone was ready to go. And hey, even rival Riverwood was at this race. They seemed to be taking the race pretty non-chalantly, starting only 7 guys, 2 of which were involved with the team last year.

Hank walked up and asked to see the Riverwood captain. Apparently, the captain wasn't even here. He had more important things to do, and couldn't be bothered to come cheer the team on. When asked if it bothered them, the Riverwood runners were very quiet, and didn't offer any sort of opinion one way or the other.

The race was about to start. Hank returned to the line. Then he noticed something odd about the Riverwood team... was it coincidence?

He whispered in Matt and Dave's ears to let Riverwood jump out in front... he noticed they were wearing spikes on the first race of the season.

The gun shot off, and as expected, Riverwood's 7 runners all jolted out to the top 7 spots in no time. It was amazing to think that in one year they go from being an underdog to being the superpower team that everyone wants to beat. Several runners kept up with them, but Riverwood was running dangerously. They clogged the lanes, and the spikes threatened anyone from passing them.

After the half-way point, things got easier for Hank, Dave, and Matt, as they pretty much stuck together to come in behind the Riverwood pack. Hank's confidence was fading. He knew this race was a loss, but he was thinking in the grander scheme. With the championship only 10 races away, there wouldn't be much time to improve.

They needed a miracle to happen.

That miracle was nowhere to be seen in the first race, as Riverwood came out and swept the competition. Goldenrod (the name of Hank's school) had finished 3rd, as the 4 and 5 runners had poor races. Hank, Matt, and Dave had finished right behind the Riverwood team, but it wasn't enough to take 2nd.

Finally, the Riverwood captain had arrived, and he berated his team for not sticking to the "plan", whatever that was. He then walked over to Hank (who he had beaten in last year's race) and confidently boasted of his team, "I hope you realize those aren't our Varsity runners. That's our JV team."

He walked off, and all Hank could do was stand there slack-jawed.

JV runners? Just how strong has Riverwood gotten?

A couple weeks passed, and there was minimal improvement from the runners. Hank was a veritable ace, as usual, and Dave and Matt were improving steadily as well. Those 3 would have no problems in a championship race... but the 4 and 5 spots would need to be filled by someone.

There was a disturbance on the football team. As the cross country team had started stretching for a run, one of the players (on the football team) had a violent outburst against another member of the team. Hank got up, told the others to keep stretching, and walked over to see what the disturbance was. As it turns out, Jon (the player who attacked the other) was being kicked off the team for his over-aggresiveness with other players. Jon didn't take it kindly, and speared the team captain, who was rather large. Suddenly, Hank had either the best or worst idea ever.

"How would you like to join the Cross-Country team?" Hank asked.

"ha. No thanks. Running is for sissies." he declared, as he started walking back to the school to change.

"How about this then, I'll send my worst varsity runner up against you. If you can't beat him, then you have to join. If you win, then you are free to go." Hank said as he tried to goad Jon into a race.

"You have some nerve. Send your best. It still won't be enough." he boasted.

"That would be me. The captain. I don't want to embarrass you." Hank brushed off Jon. In secret, he was just trying to goad Jon more... he didn't care who beat him.

"You won't. Five mile race from here to the coffee shop."

"That's fine with me... just let me tell my team to go wait for me there." Hank left to go tell the team what he was thinking. Despite some objections, there was surprising support from Matt and Dave.

Matt had gotten up first, "I may be one of the frosh, but it's pretty clear that guy has athleticism. He'd make a great runner if we trained him from the ground up."

Then Dave offered his take, "He may be a tad violent, but he can't do anything but help at this juncture. Plus, second chances are important in life. Just one question, Hank. Can you beat him?"

Hank was fairly certain about it, but didn't want to down his opponent further. He had gotten the race, now he just needed to finish it.

The race was a go.

I wish I could say something interesting about it, but it was never close. Hank got out to a fast lead and never let go. Jon was no slouch, but he lacked the conditioning required to pace himself. Once Jon crossed the finish line, Hank handed him an iced coffee.

"Good race, I'll see you at practice tomorrow." Hank said as he got ready to leave.

"No you won't." said Jon gasping for breath

"We had a deal. Remember?" said Hank.

"Oh, I intend to fulfill it. Just give me a chance to catch my breath so I can start today. It ain't as easy as it looks."

Hank smirked, and told the team to just stay loose so Jon could join them for practice. He would need a lot of work, but Jon was a very athletic man, and he would be certain to be of some help.

---------------------

It had been a month since Jon joined the team, and the team had a strong sense of unity. They had 3 top runners, and Jon was on his way to becoming the 4th. It was during this time that Hank decided they needed more firepower.

But where could he enlist the help he needed?

He was sure he was going to hate himself for it... but he went to the Soccer team. The soccer team at Goldenrod was terrible. Winless this season with no hope of making the playoffs. The team was not united, and the star player, Ricardo was not helping matters. He often times ran from one end to the other, stealing the ball from his own teammates. He was a fast runner, and in an individual sport like Cross Country, would be a big asset for the team.

"So I hear you are missing the playoffs Ricardo."

"Bite me, Hank."

Hank and Ricardo never got along. Both being seniors, they had had to put up with each other the last four years. Hank's team was successful, Ricardo's was not. There was too much fire to forge a real friendship.

"I can offer you a chance to win." Hank said

"Getting right to business are we? You must think I'm an idiot. Why would I give up the best sport in the world to just run of all things."

"Because you'd be good at it, and you don't have to worry about team-mates bringing you down. You'd have a solid chance to win every time out, and again, wouldn't be affected by your team."

"But it's boring. Who cares about winning if you don't have a challenge?" Ricardo denied to recognize running, his rivals sport, as equal to his own.

"To each their own I suppose. But you haven't won anything with this team. If I remember correct, you haven't even won a single game since joining the soccer team." Hank sneered

The coach walked over, and berated Ricardo and Hank for having attitudes. Then he said out of the corner of his mouth a phrase so quiet, you may have mistook it for the wind.

"You can always be a two sport athlete. The soccer games are an hour and a half before races take place." and then walked off.

Ricardo thought it over, and said, "I'd get to win and be on the soccer team right?"

"Yeah, I suppose, if you really want to strain yourself."

"And you would understand Soccer comes first, right?"

"Of course."

Ricardo nodded, and walked off. He didn't say another word, and another wasn't needed. Hank got his 5th ringer.

--------------------------------------

But disaster was looming. It was a rainy day, and they were running on a hilly course. Riverwood was again in attendance, and this time brought out the same 7 JV runners as the last race.

Hank, Dave, and Matt were on the line. Ricardo wasn't here yet, nor was it thought he'd make it in time. Jon looked a little uneasy to be in his first race.

The gun shot. Ricardo did not make it in time. Or did he? He got on the line literally a second before the race started. Ricardo jumped out so fast, Hank had to catch up to warn him about Riverwood.

Hank hadn't realized it at the time, but Ricardo was likely going to end up the team's top runner with his speed potential. Hank caught up and quickly warned him about Riverwood, but at this point, his leg buckled out from under him.

One of the Riverwood runners had intentionally tripped him. and in the muddy situation, Hank had no choice but to fall forward, hitting his knee off one of the rocks. His day was over, and his season was on life support.

-------------------------

"So how is it Doc?" he asked.

"Not good, you'll probably be out 2-3 months. That was a real nasty injury..."

"That's no good. I need to be back in a month."

"Surely you jest... There is just no way. If you did, you'd just get injured again."

"I will come back, and I WILL not get injured."

-------------------------

From that point on, Hank sat by and watched his team during practice, during races, and offered whatever help he could. Dave and Matt were veritable aces. They could challenge Riverwood's 3 and 4 at this point. Jon was making amazing progress, he was already the 5th runner, and was starting to catch up to Matt and Dave. As for Ricardo... he was rarely seen at practice, and he missed his last race. The regional race.

Regionals was scarring for Hank. They barely qualified for the state meet. It was a sunny day, and 2 of the top 5 weren't on the line. Riverwood brought out their varsity this time, and Hank used the opportunity to scout them.

Riverwood really was stronger than last year. 15:30. 15:45. 15:57. 16:44. 16:45. The top 5 blazed in, without any opposition for the most part. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Comparitively, Goldenrod had the 6, 7, and 8 spots. Dave, Matt, and Jon. 16:49. 16:58. 17:12.

Ricardo normally slotted in around 15:50. And Hank normally got the very same. They had a fierce rivalry. But fierce or not... in a straight up race, Riverwood had them beat. Ricardo and Hank needed to beat the number 2 guy, and Matt and Dave needed to break 16. Jon just needed to get below 17.

Time was running out. Two weeks until the state championships... and Hank wasn't ready yet.

What were they going to do...

-----------------------------

A week passed, and Hank went to the Doctor.

Still not ready. He was making remarkable progress, but was unable to get fully ready. He had one more week to get medically cleared to compete.

Hank stretched every second of the weekend. He walked so as to strengthen his muscles. He did literally everything one could to get better.

Hank had one more checkup. The day before the Championship.

-----------------------------

The doctor smiled.

"Your recovery is complete. I'm amazed you were able to heal in record time." He signed a form telling Hank he was medically able, and had it submitted to the coach just in time to get on the team for states.

---------------------------

The day of states arrived, and tension was in the air. It was a perfect day for running. Everyone was excited. Matt was running in his first states race. Dave was getting a chance to show up his former team. Ricardo was actually early to the race, saying that a state championship was more important than the potential of winning his first soccer game. Jon was healthy, and for the first time since joining the team, looked like a runner. They had gone a long way to this moment. A long road.

And Hank was finally healthy. It was assumed Hank wouldn't be a threat to compete, but he did a light jog and felt perfect. He ate right the night before, and he legitimately thought he could place top 10. Which was all they needed.

The runners got on the line, and they heard the gun shot.

The time had come to finish the season.

There was a cluster**** of runners going into the first turn. Over 80 of the best runners in the state were all still in it. Anyone could win this. Riverwood's starting 7 jetted out to a fast start, and Goldenrod's top 5 were not far behind. Ricardo was even showing his first signs of wanting to be there.

Hank even felt relatively healthy. Going across the first mile, he was a little on the slow side, but he was playing it safe. At this point Riverwood had 5 in the top 8, and Goldenrod had 2. Dave and Matt. It was going to be tough to catch up, but there was still a chance.

Dave and Matt had pulled too far ahead of Hank for him to reasonably catch up, and Ricardo was saving energy, so they ran together for a little while. During this time, Jon caught up, and they had a ball running as a group for the first time. Jon, the football star who had an attitude issue, was having fun being part of something and not being angry. Ricardo, the soccer show off, had shown signs of being a fantastic team player. Little did he know that the Soccer team finally had their first win. Maybe this was his sport all along. And Hank, he was getting stronger as the race went on.

Finally he broke the silence around the end of the second mile. "Let's catch up to those two. Can't have them steal all the fun."

Ricardo and Jon could only nod. It was time to start the counter attack.

At the end of the second mile, Riverwood had the top 3. Then Matt and Dave. Then 2 more Riverwood runners sandwiched between 4 other runners from other schools. Then came the trio of Hank, Jon, and Ricardo.

It was the fastest mile they ever ran. Ricardo was going under 5 for this mile... and Hank was somehow keeping up. Whereas for Jon, he was fading, but still in the race.

The finish line never smelled so good to them. A championship was still a possibility, and there was no way they would be content with second. At the very least, this team would go on to another race at a regionals race for Nationals. And Nationals was a distinct possibility. A VERY distinct possibility. Especially if Hank could get back to old form.

The finish line was set, and the first crossed the finish line. It was Riverwood's Captain. Who came in with a record time for the event. Following him was a real upset.

Dave and Matt had grown as a unit, and really hit it off as friends. And they stuck together the entire race. Now was a true test. Who was the better runner? They started their push. No one was close. They were going to finish 2nd and 3rd, but no one knew who would be where between them. Matt took a quick lead. Then Dave caught up. And then Matt passed him back. There was enough back and forth action for sure... it would need a photo finish.

When all was said and done, even the photo couldn't decide. They both crossed the finish line at the exact same time. There was no idea how to rule it. So it was left off to the side.

A Riverwood runner came in, so Riverwood and Goldenrod were tied.

It would all come down to Hank and his group. As they passed a Riverwood runner, Jon slowed down further to keep pace with him. As they passed another, Ricardo and Hank sped up. They were not content to hold pace with the 4th Riverwood runner. They needed to pass the third. And they would not lose to each other.

Hank started to hurt though. He was healthy, but this was his first race in a long time... he wasn't in perfect shape. Once Ricardo noticed this, he pat Hank on the back. "Don't stress yourself too much. When you heal up for the next race we'll have our showdown then." and raced forward.

A couple of runners from other schools passed, and then came Ricardo.

A couple more runners from other schools came in, and then came both Hank and the 3rd and 4th Riverwood runners. The 3rd and Hank blew by the 4th in the final stretch, as he just didn't have the energy. Hank beat out the 3rd by a very close margin of 3 seconds.

Then came the 4th, and it all came down to the last runners.

Jon slowed down and couldn't pass the 5th, but he had the best race of his career, as well as his first ever top 15 finish.

The final score looked like this

Riverwood - 1, 4, 11, 12, 13
Goldenrod - 2, 3, 7, 10, 15

Total score Riverwood - 41, Goldenrod - 37.

Goldenrod beat out Riverwood by a whole 4 points. (In running, the lower scores win.)

A mob of cameras took pictures as Hank couldn't believe what they had done. No more accurately, what he had done. He was so modest he wouldn't realize it, but it was he who brought this team a championship. He convinced Jon and Ricardo to join the team, he got Dave and Matt clicking on the same page. He had gotten himself back on the field.

They had one last group huddle before accepting their state title. This was the last time Hank would run with this team. Well... not last. But the last time they will run together with the goal of winning states.

They had grown up a lot this season. And Hank was proud to be a member of the team.

They beat the powerhouse. They avenged their loss from last year. All was well.
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04-06-12 11:46 AM
Jordanv78 is Offline
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I have to be honest with you man, I pretty much stopped reading once I saw that you posted that you were god.

I have to be honest with you man, I pretty much stopped reading once I saw that you posted that you were god.

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04-06-12 02:47 PM
jlh is Offline
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Wow you must have a million vizz! I read a little bit and will read the rest when I have time. Nice work,How do you do it lol.
Wow you must have a million vizz! I read a little bit and will read the rest when I have time. Nice work,How do you do it lol.
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04-06-12 06:53 PM
legacyme3 is Offline
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Jordanv78 :

That's a shame

Because the story got a lot better for those who were able to stomach that
Jordanv78 :

That's a shame

Because the story got a lot better for those who were able to stomach that
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04-06-12 08:46 PM
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I don't like sports to be honest. This though was a REALLY good story! I got caught up in it and read the whole thing. Good going Legacy! I look to seeing more of your work in the future!
I don't like sports to be honest. This though was a REALLY good story! I got caught up in it and read the whole thing. Good going Legacy! I look to seeing more of your work in the future!
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04-07-12 12:26 AM
catfight09 is Offline
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Not bad. I should've known you would've been a pretty good writer too. I didn't read the whole thing though. I was probably going to do track when I get into high school next year. I still have to figure out which kind of running I plan on doing since basketball didn't work out.

Was Track your main sport leggy?
Not bad. I should've known you would've been a pretty good writer too. I didn't read the whole thing though. I was probably going to do track when I get into high school next year. I still have to figure out which kind of running I plan on doing since basketball didn't work out.

Was Track your main sport leggy?
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04-07-12 01:12 AM
tRIUNE is Offline
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Yeah I'm agreeing with Jordan about that - I did lol at it but I lost interest when I got to the actual story
Yeah I'm agreeing with Jordan about that - I did lol at it but I lost interest when I got to the actual story
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(edited by tRIUNE on 04-07-12 01:12 AM)    

04-07-12 04:29 PM
legacyme3 is Offline
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catfight09 :

No no no. I was a cross country runner. There's a difference.

tRIUNE :

I take that to mean I should write a story about how awesome I am.
catfight09 :

No no no. I was a cross country runner. There's a difference.

tRIUNE :

I take that to mean I should write a story about how awesome I am.
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04-07-12 08:02 PM
tRIUNE is Offline
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"I take that to mean I should write a story about how awesome I am."

Yeah why not, it'd probably be funny enough for a read.
"I take that to mean I should write a story about how awesome I am."

Yeah why not, it'd probably be funny enough for a read.
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04-10-12 11:23 PM
pacman1755 is Offline
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Behind a madman is a genius. I suppose you are a madman leggy. This story goes deep into your personality. The story is genius. Written by a madman
Behind a madman is a genius. I suppose you are a madman leggy. This story goes deep into your personality. The story is genius. Written by a madman
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