The Huskies cross country teams have started off the season formidably at both the Huskies Sled Dog Open in Saskatoon and the Stewart Cup in Calgary. The women’s team placed first at both competitions, while the men’s team placed second and third at the Sled Dog Open and Stewart Cup, respectively. Coming out of the gates strong, the teams look to maintain their performance at the Canada West Championship on Oct. 30 in Saskatoon. 

First-year runner Jenna McFadyen has been a standout early on after her rookie campaign was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year. She finished second in both the eight-kilometre race at Sled Dog Open and the six-kilometre race at the Stewart Cup. Despite her individual accomplishments during the races, McFadyen noted that “practices are still the highlight of my week.” 

Although the team still kept each other “motivated” during last year’s cancelled season, McFadyen noted that said “It’s just easier knowing there’s something on the calendar.”. 

“It completely makes a difference getting to train together… it’s just a different atmosphere training towards a goal.”

McFadyen was second only to the decorated Courtney Hufsmith, who has multiple medals in Canada West and U SPORTS competitions. Hufsmith, who is in her last year with the Huskies, finished first in the Sled Dog Open this year, claiming her third career victory in the competition. 

McFayden told the Sheaf that Hufsmith has played an important role as a mentor for her.. 

“I can’t even list all the things she’s taught me. One of the biggest things I’ve learned from her is to just enjoy the team. There’s only a small window that you get to be a university athlete, and it’s something you can’t get back. So just don’t let yourself get too caught up in what you want results-wise, but enjoy the process”. 

Although cross country competitions were cancelled last season, the teams were still able to bolster their chemistry. McFadyen said she was “taken aback” by the team’s virtual support when she came in as a rookie. 

Third-year runner Anthony Antaya echoed McFadyen’s statements about building team chemistry over last season. “Especially during [the] last cross country season, it was great … getting to know some of those new guys and moving into this year, keeping that team dynamic going.” 

Antaya placed 11th overall during the Sled Dog Open, and improved with a ninth place finish in the eight-kilometre race at the Stewart Cup. He credits his strong form to his summer training program. 

“With running, consistency is so key. Having that consistency with the summer season helped me move towards the fall with a better fitness than I think I’ve ever had before” said Antaya. 

He was also quick to point out the team’s overall success, suggesting that strategies of “sticking together” and holding each other “accountable” have been indispensable for the team. 

Moving forward, McFadyen elaborated on the team’s goals looking ahead to the championship. 

“The main goal we have is, with the opportunity to get to host, getting to be familiar just like we are on every Saturday practice. I think simulating the same fun atmosphere where we support each other … motivates [us] to keep running,” said McFadyen. 

Antaya pointed to the men’s team’s improved depth and ability to field a full roster as a positive for the championships. 

“All the guys have been working hard in training and getting fitter throughout the season … I think we’re going to see a lot of really great performances,” said Antaya.

In addition to the team’s performances, the Sled Dog Open was significant as it involved all teams running in orange singlets in support of Orange Shirt Day, a national day dedicated to commemorating the thousands of Indigenous survivors of the Canadian residential school system. 

The Huskies partnered with Saskatchewan Aboriginal Track and Field for the event, which included a Smudging Ceremony, the presentation of a traditional gift from the Huskies cross country captains to a group of First Nations Elders and a three-kilometre Community Survivor Walk. 

“It definitely felt like a privilege to … honour the day,” said McFadyen.  

“It was a time for reflection, for sure. And something we didn’t just think about on that day…I think it definitely brought awareness not only to our team, but anyone who heard about the event.” 

Both McFadyen and Antaya have been successful off the track as well, as they were both named Academic All-Canadians for the 2020-21 calendar year.To qualify for the distinction, athletes must acquire an average of 80 per cent or more on a minimum of 18 credit units for the school year. 

Discussing her academic life with the Sheaf, McFadyen says that she has welcomed the return to in-person learning. “Although it takes more time, the in-person classes and the competitions are more fulfilling, so it’s more motivating,” said McFadyen.

Antaya adds that he enjoys having both studies and athletics in his life, as he uses running as a stress reliever and as an opportunity for him to expand his social circle. “As the coaches always say … school comes first. It’s student athlete, not athlete student.” said Antaya. 

Catch McFadyen, Antaya and the rest of the squad in action at Victoria Park on Oct. 30, as they pursue the Canada West podium. 

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Uday Chhina | Sports and Health Editor

Photos: Supplied by Josh Schaefer | Huskie Athletics via GetMyPhoto.ca