by Joy Cheng | Special to the Courier

The Claremont High School cross country team is well-known for its achievements and legacy as a long-time top contender in the state.

However, from 8 a.m. July 11 to 8 a.m. the next morning, the team laced up its running shoes for something beyond medals and accolades: they ran to make a difference, participating in a 24-hour relay fundraiser for the Claremont Canopy, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting local refugee families.

Senior captain Isla Bulmer reflected on the meaning and impact of the event.

“We hear about these refugees and communities that are struggling online,” Bulmer said. “Being able to personally make a difference for them is really meaningful.”

By the end of the 24 hour fundraiser the team had run a combined 163 miles and raised $2,780.

Junior captain Luka Anderson has seen Claremont Canopy’s impact firsthand. As such, he was motivated at the event, logging 26.2, the length of a marathon, miles to support the charity.

“I have a personal connection to every person that’s been affected by [Claremont] Canopy,” Anderson said. “I’ve been to [refugees’] house, I’ve had dinner with them. So it just gave me another level of personal motivation.”

Athletes had the opportunity to meet some of the families impacted by Claremont Canopy’s work prior to the event. That connection fueled their passion and gave them a sense of purpose while carrying the baton, said coaches Natalie Miano and Mark Batres.

“It was heartfelt,” Miano said. “The kids ran with passion in their hearts. They organized this themselves, and they should feel incredibly proud.”

“It’s special because the kids come together and they work towards something greater than themselves,” Batres added. “It teaches them that together they can do good — not just for themselves, but for the community.”

Claremont High School rising senior Joy Cheng is a staff member of the school newspaper, The Wolfpacket, and has a passion for journalism.