The Stamford High cross country team competed in the 2020 FCIAC Regional Championships on Wednesday, November 4. The annual event was run differently this year due to COVID-19 regulations.

The 16 teams that make up the FCIAC were split up into three divisions based on the schools’ locations, with each region running the course at a different time in the day. Stamford High School competed in the West Region, alongside schools from Darien, New Canaan, Greenwich, and Stamford. 

The Boys Varsity 5K and Girls Varsity 4K were the only races run at the championships. In past years, athletes who were not in the top eight runners of their team were allowed to compete in junior varsity or freshmen races. However, in order to control the number of people present, only 16 athletes (eight boys and eight girls) were allowed from each school.

Other stipulations included the banning of spectators at the event. At the entrance of Waveny Park – where the race was held – large signs were placed to ward off parents and other fans. 

“The concern with spectators is that we would lose control of the number of people in the race area and make it more difficult to effectively distance the runners,” the FCIAC website states. 

“We want this to be as safe an environment as possible for racers, coaches and race personnel.” 

Despite these limitations, the Stamford High team remained optimistic. 

“This team has great depth. Everyone on this team deserves their spot, especially for playoffs,” said Senior Captain Andrew Bagan. “Everyone on this team is a quality runner.”

Other captains commented on the number of freshmen the team has this year, proclaiming hopes of the team’s success in the coming years.

“The freshmen’s energy for the team and each other is different this year,” said Senior Captain James Deberadinis. “It will be very interesting to see when they’re seniors.”