Jonathan Beverly volunteers to instruct and guide young athletes in grades 7-12 to integrate running into their lives to improve conditioning and build endurance for whatever sport they are involved in. (Johnson Publications file photo)
Jonathan Beverly supervises CCS students in summer running program
Jonathan Beverly, local runner, journalist, photographer, writer and cross-country running coach for Chase County Schools, volunteers his time and expertise for a summer running program.
He works with students, in grades 7-12, to get fit and learn to love running.
Beverly and students meet at the CCS track at 6:15 a.m., Monday through Friday, to run three to six miles most days.
“We run a little longer on Fridays to work toward completing a half-marathon by the end of summer. The marathon usually consists of more experienced high school runners,” Beverly said.
He added that on Wednesday mornings, they focus more on speed than distance.
The summer running program is intended to help with conditioning for students in all athletic programs. Cross-county runners make up the bulk of a dozen or so participants that run during the week, he said. Although, anyone is welcome to join.
“Endurance can’t be rushed. It is acquired over time,” Beverly said.
Tuesday and Thursday mornings, Beverly puts upcoming senior students in charge to lead the run so they can work on their leadership skills.
“It provides a different dynamic for the group without the coach watching over them,” he said.
Beverly said the runners don’t have to commit to running every day. He leaves it up to them. Several of the students have other commitments during the weekday mornings that require them to split their time.
“I love running, and I want to help other people love it, too. It is a gradual process to learn to enjoy running,” he said.