Denise Chen is a star cross-country runner, breaking school records as a sophomore, and she ends this cross-country season with a bang. With a stellar performance at the CIF state meet, placing 8th, Chen is the Wolfpacket’s December 2021 athlete of the month.
In this past season, Chen has proven her skill with several spectacular races. Her fastest 3 mile time this year, raced at Mt. SAC, is a stunning 17:36. She was awarded the San Gabriel Valley 2021 High School Girls Runner of the Year on December 1st.
This year, the CHS cross-country team has had a vast combination of different courses. Ranging from flat courses like Cool Breeze and Woodbridge to hilly ones like Mt. SAC and Woodward Park. Chen additionally raced at Eastbay-Footlockers West, a national competition, and placed 35th. It was tough competition, there were 19 state champions in her race, and Chen received valuable experience. She shares that she is especially happy with her amazing performance at the CIF state meet.
“I was definitely really happy about state because I placed 8th,” Chen said. “It wasn’t my fastest time or anything but I was very happy with placing.”
Chen enjoys cross-country because it allows her to enjoy the outdoors along with her friends everyday, and it’s a sport that you can do for life. Ever since she was young, Chen has always been active, whether it be hiking, walking, or jogging. She expresses that her parents have also helped her get onto the path of cross-country and have supported her throughout her entire running career.
Chen would like to shout out her teammates, coaches, and parents this year for a great season. She would also like to add a special mention to Coach Reeves who will be retiring this year. She is very grateful for his guidance.