As part of my CAS experience, I completed a cross-country marathon in recent months. Cross Country is a running sport in which participants race large distances through nature. Being physically active is equally as vital as performing well in academics, yet when I transitioned from MYP to DP, I didn’t prioritize my physical health. However, choosing Cross Country for CAS allowed me to focus on it while I had the opportunity. Participating in this exercise enabled me to achieve numerous critical learning objectives.

LO 1 :-  Identify own strengths and develop areas for growth

This cross country marathon experience helped me better grasp my physical talents and limitations. While endurance over longer distances and maintaining a constant pace proved to be my strengths, the exercise highlighted areas where I know I can improve in the future. In particular, I noticed that working on my breathing technique and running form in future training sessions will assist me. Receiving accurate feedback on how I may improve my performance will be critical to attaining new goals. This experience allowed me to critically reflect on myself in a way that will help me continue to develop.

LO 2 :– Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills

Training for and completing this marathon pushed me well beyond what I thought was possible before going on this journey. Pushing to attain distances like the 5km run was utterly unexpected and intimidating at first, but it shown that I had inner power when I continue. I also improved my time management and planning abilities by integrating my running schedule with other responsibilities. Facing uncertainties and tiredness on a daily basis helped to strengthen both mental and physical stamina. This challenge helped me to acquire tenacity and confidence in my talents while also broadening skill sets that would help me achieve my future objectives and growth.

LO4 :– Show perseverance and commitment in CAS experience

Getting through the weeks of preparation and several runs needed self-motivation, particularly on days when motivation waned. However, seeing my development and finding delight in completing each run motivated me to give my all every time. Completing this extended personal challenge revealed that, with focus and drive, I am capable of doing what appears to be impossible at first. My dedication to improving myself via this experience demonstrates that with hard effort, I can grow as a person in significant ways. This lesson will remain with me as I embark on any future CAS experiences and beyond.

This cross-country race taught me significant life skills that will undoubtedly benefit me long after I finish school. I am happy of my tenacity, enjoy my improved time management abilities, and am encouraged to keep challenging myself and improving. My CAS experience provided me with valuable personal development opportunities that I will continue forward.