Photo Courtesy of https://saugusrunning.smugmug.com/2025-08-23-Mt-SAC-Mountie-Express
This year on the boys cross country team, a lot of freshmen came out to try and earn a spot on the roster. About 11 of them made it, but one name in particular is already standing out – Kurt Shively. In just his first season, Kurt’s been posting fast times and putting in the kind of effort that’s hard to ignore.
Kurt’s hard work and impressive early performances quickly caught the coaches’ attention. They gave him opportunities to compete in bigger invitational events, showing their confidence in his potential and recognizing his achievements as a freshman. These chances not only highlight his talent but also help him grow as an athlete.
Earlier this season, he was selected to travel with the team to San Francisco for an invite-only race – a big opportunity that demonstrates the potential he’s showing in just his first year. Kurt raced a 16:15 on a slightly shorter course, placing 15th in his race and 4th overall for the Saugus team. With a lot of races in the season ahead, he’s proving that he’s a runner to watch.
On September 20, Saugus XC raced in the 44th Annual Woodbridge Cross Country Classic 2025. Kurt Shively finished with a 16:34, placing 13th in his race and earning the record for Saugus as the 5th fastest freshman of all time. With a lot of races left in his season, he may be able to surpass the current record of 15:42, set by Tyler Wollin just last year.
I got the chance to talk with Kurt about his season so far, how he’s adjusting to high school running, and what he’s looking forward to next.
What were you most excited (or nervous) about heading into your first high-school season?
“I am excited to represent Saugus and run with some awesome athletes. It was great having the chance to run with the team since the beginning of summer. Being a part of the team before classes started made starting school feel easier because I knew the campus and lots of familiar faces.”
You’ve already been putting up some fast times — how are you feeling about the way you’ve been racing so far?
“I feel that I have been racing well so far, but haven’t had a race this year that I can say I have done the best that I could have done. I have felt really strong in training the past few weeks and I can feel a fast race coming soon.”
How has the team welcomed you as a freshman? Have any of the older runners been helping you out?
“Both Coach Sergey and Coach Berns have welcomed me and the other freshmen with open arms. During the first few weeks, they showed us the routines and expectations of the team. My teammates also have also welcomed me kindly, helping show me what it means to be a Saugus runner. When I have questions or am seeking advice, like racing strategies, what to eat, and how to deal with nerves, my teammates have been super helpful.”
What’s been the toughest part about your first season so far?
“The toughest part of my first season so far has been getting into the training routine. On Mondays, it is rough waking up and being mentally prepared to run at 6:15 in the morning. It is also hard to get the right nutrition to support the large quantity of running that we do. We have to/get to eat a lot of food!”
What are your goals for the rest of the season? Are there any times or milestones you’re hoping to hit?
“One of my goals for the rest of the season is to win the Foothill League finals. My goal is to be one of the top five runners that will contribute to our team’s score. If we all work together in a pack to pace each other to a good time, that would be a mission accomplished. Timewise, I wish to run close to or around 16:15 for a three mile.”
With his work ethic, mindset, and already impressive times, Kurt isn’t just another freshman on the roster – he’s making a serious impact. He’s pushing himself every day, taking advice from coaches and teammates, and proving he belongs on varsity. And the best part? He’s only just getting started. Don’t be surprised if you hear his name popping up more in the Saugus record books before this season’s over.
