By Blake Chadwick
At Hutchinson Trinity Catholic, cross country isn’t just about running miles for seniors Jacob and John Lindstrom; it is about family. For the Lindstrom brothers, the sport has become a bond that pushes both brothers to new levels while shaping the identity of their team.
Jacob, who returns as the fastest boy runner in Class 2A, knows the importance of preparation.
“To elevate myself for this season started during the summer,” he said. “Our coach hosted summer workouts and practices. I started running two weeks after the state track, and we averaged about 30 miles per week during the summer. The main thing that I try to do on a week-to-week basis is to get the mileage in, stay as fresh as I can by stretching, and recovery.”
That consistency has been his greatest strength.
“I have a great team to train with and rely on,” Jacob added.
His goals are straightforward: “Win every meet this season, go sub-15:20, win state cross country, and run to the best of my ability every meet.”
For John, progress has come from staying steady while embracing the team’s competitive culture.
“I just stayed consistent, pushed myself hard on workouts, and kept building on the base that was already there, while still slowing down and enjoying the sport with my team,” he said. “In a race setting, though, I think that my strengths lie more in being able to switch up my tactics from sitting behind people to leading a pack.”
Running against and with each other has been a true difference maker for both.
“Running with my brother has been one of the best parts of my cross country experience,” Jacob said. “He’s my biggest supporter and competitor. Without him, I don’t think I would have the success that I do, or the love of the sport.”
John felt the same way.
“Having the chance to run with my little brother has honestly been one of the best things for me in my journey. He’s always there when I need a running buddy. It has also made me push myself because I really do want to beat him, but he also holds me accountable and helps me push through, especially when I am tired.”
