Ginger Schulte, senior at Ladue High School, crosses the finish line first of the St. Vincent’s park 5k varsity race. Starting off conservatively, Schulte ran behind Sophia Pelligreen for the first mile of the race.

“When I was getting near her, I was thinking in my head “do 10 quick steps to catch up,” Schulte said. “After I caught up to her, she started slowing down, so I took the opportunity to pass her.” 

This win was important to Schulte, as it was the first mile marker to the big goals she has for cross country this year. With a personal record (PR) time of 19:42, achieved by Schulte at McNair Park in 2020, Schulte plans to break her PR by hitting low 19:00 or even breaking it. 

“This race meant a lot to me because it was my first varsity cross country win,” Schulte said. I’m so glad that it happened on our home meet and that we beat Clayton.”

Leading the team to a successful victory takes a lot of strength and perseverance, but Schulte is always ready to step up to the challenge. Her work ethic, love for the sport, and grit has allowed her to achieve vast amounts of success in cross country. 

“I love running because it is a great stress reliever,” Schulte said. “It has connected me with wonderful people and kept me in great shape.”