"The cross country season is so short, you cannot afford to not look forward to a race," Martin said. "The importance of the race means nothing unless you are prepared mentally and physically."

"If you've been shirking all season up until this point, you'll have your rear end handed to you on a silver platter," Martin added.

The team has been doing speed work this week, all in preparation for the Heptagonals, but the workouts should help the cause today as well.

"Our training is aimed at preparing the team to peak at Heps," Friedman said. "But we have backed off slightly the last two days to allow ourselves to be slightly rested."

Also, the team has some unique training routines that entail intensive stretching exercises, called asanas. Many on the team think these special exercises help them to remain flexible and relaxed even in the heat of a race.

"All teams train hard, but I believe that the asanas we meticulously perform after our hard workouts give us a competitive edge," junior captain Ed Baker said. "I feel that these yogic postures not only loosen my muscles but also loosen my mind, allowing me to meditate and focus on my upcoming races."

Along with hard workouts and intense stretches to get them physically ready, the team has been visualizing racing success to get them mentally prepared. Martin, in particular, likes to prepare by imagining himself as a classical Greek hero.

"In terms of preparedness, I have been visualizing the race relentlessly, often shrugging off my schoolwork to do so," Martin said.