Every few years the Arlington Cross Country races on the day of the Homecoming dance. This year however was different, being an evening race rather than day.  In the program, many of the athletes become divided on the decision to attend the meet or the dance every year.

This year, Twilight, an annual race, landed on the same day as the dance. Twilight is an event that includes 98 schools and other individuals compete with each other. It includes a fun run at the end of the night as well.

Senior Brooke Henkin is one of the fastest girls on the current girls team who has been putting effort in for four years now. Her teammates and schedule have always been a main priority for her and showed in last week’s upcoming race.

“For me I want to race in college, running is very important to me. I also raced super well last year on this course, so that’s why it’s such a big deal to me” Henkin said.

  Henkin has been running xc for 6 years now and has plans to attend college while competing in xc at a higher level. Competing in the Twilight race would add an extra time to her name and a possible personal record.

Others would disagree though, choosing the dance over the race. Senior, Anya Yakshin spoke on the importance of making it to these school events because it’s a one time experience. 

Listening further, Yakshin believes there’s so many more offers in the future to hit her pr than miss homecoming. 

“While I do only get four twilight races, I also only get four homecomings as well and I believe I’m going to remember homecoming much better while I’m older and not as a regret.” Yakshin said.

Junior, Juan Burgui recently joined cross country during his first year as a foreign exchange student. After participating in both events, Burgui realized the meet had been way more enjoyable.

“I would’ve stayed at twilight if I knew the experiences I would get from both, I really enjoyed the course and the finish line that was in the dark and how it was all done with teammates” Burgui said.