Scenes like the one above were common all at the Walter Ledet Complex at the conclusion of the 2023 LHSAA State Cross Country Championships in Natchitoches.
MileSplit LA state editor Jerry Byrd was waiting on the Westminster Christian Academy head coach to finish meeting with his team for the final time after the last race of the year.
"Was it worth it?" Coach Melancon was overheard asking his runners.
It was a special moment for a special team which used their runner-up finish in 2022 to Christ Episcopal School as motivation to avenge their loss and take home the 2023 state title home to Opelousas.
READ MORE: COLUMN: "Was It Worth It?"
READ MORE IN THE SERIES:
Dec. 30 - THE YEAR IN PICTURES! No. 2 -- Brady Breaks 15:00 5k Barrier!