Ava Smith had a theory that track would help her in field hockey.

Fortunately for her, it took a differ turn.

“I started running around the beginning of 2022 for track and field,” noted the Catasauqua senior. “I originally started because I wanted to be faster for field hockey, but then it turned into something more.

“I ended up joining the cross country team.”

Over the last two years, Smith has been an important cog for the Rough Rider harriers. Last season, she finished 56th in the Colonial League meet, and she then recorded a 24th-place finish at the district 11 meet. In the spring, Smith runs the one- and two-mile along with the 800.

This fall, Smith and fellow senior Alivia Bear have paced the girls’ team. Smith has broken the 20-minute mark with a personal record of 19:08.

Smith is optimistic about the rest of the season and is confident she can peak in time for league and districts.

“I’m feeling really positive about my season so far,” she said. “I have improved my times, and, recently set my PR. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.

“I feel fortunate to run with my good friend, Alivia.”

Head coach Kyle Rusnock also has a positive outlook for the rest of the season. At the recent meet ant Northern Lehigh, Evan Reed, William Aguirre, and Gavin Hacker were the top three finishers for the boys. Bear, Uyen Ly, and Nhi Thai were the top three among the girls.

“We’re doing very well and improving each week, “ added Rusnock. “We appear to be ready to peak as the season is coming to an end. We have a big meet coming up this week with Palisades, and we’re looking forward to that.”