Menlo cross country 2025

The Menlo cross country team found a unique winning combination —fast miles, festive music, and tacos. The Knights’ inaugural Relays & Tacos event turned a Friday practice into a community celebration of running and togetherness.

Last Friday afternoon began with timed mile trials, during which athletes from all four teams tested their fitness in a supportive atmosphere. Typically, the Knights run in one of their four groups divided by varsity, JV, girls and boys.

This time, athletes were placed into three randomized groups, each guided by a boy and girl team captain.

“It allowed us to learn more about the kids on our team and use our different skills to work together,” said senior and four-year runner Anya Ramani.

“My teammates all really enjoyed the event, and for me personally, it was great to be able to run a time trial in a pressure-free environment. A lot of athletes actually PR’d (myself included) in the mile because we were all just having a fun time running with teammates. I hope we can cultivate this environment for the rest of the season.”

While the runners recovered, parents gathered by the whiteboard for a hands-on session about Menlo’s training methods with the coaches, and getting an insider’s look at the team’s approach to building endurance and teamwork.

Families cheered and teammates encouraged one another throughout, and it was clear the day wasn’t just about competition. The relays wrapped up with a feast from a taco truck trackside where runners, parents, and coaches gathered to talk.

As the Knights prepare for the second half of their season, the relays provided the ideal situation for training and unity, Ramani said. 

“I hope the Intrasquad Meet becomes a new tradition for the team.”