Track and field is around the corner, and that means that the long distance team for Clark is already training for the season. This will be Charles Bennion’s sophomore season as the head coach of the long distance and cross country teams.

“I’m very excited for the distance runners this track season,” says Bennion. “We have eight boys that should run the mile in under five minutes, and five girls that could run it in under six minutes.”

Since it is the offseason, Bennion is getting his runners ready with training in the coldest months Vegas has to offer.

“We are getting ready for the season by building our runners’ based during the winter,” he says. “The key is for them to get in a run every day.”

Many of Clark’s top runners are returning this year, including speedy senior Liam Jones. However, Coach Bennion is still working to build depth in his team.

“Our top boys runners are Liam Jones, Trevor Pearl, and Mario Tavares,” says Bennion. “Right behind them are Jorge Castro, Max Garcia, Niko Aguillon, Michael Finley, and Riley Tran.”

Though his runners share the same team, Coach Bennion curates an environment of healthy internal competition and motivation.

“Our team is different because they allow the top runners to inspire them. The top runners set a great example of hard work, and the others follow.”

“Coach Bennion is truly inspirational,” says sophomore Riley Tran. “He’s the guide I needed to succeed in cross country this year.”

“I love coaching distance runners,” says Coach Bennion. “They work under harsh conditions, and find satisfaction in doing their very best. They don’t need a lot of glory or attention to push themselves to their limits.”