Introducing Valparaiso High School XC Senior Karl Rinkenberger

As a Senior, Karl Rinkenberger has finished his last season as a Valparaiso High School Cross Country runner. Karl said he is going to miss the commradery of the team, he said "We have a fun time together as a team and I am really going to miss that." With morning practices no longer required, Karl says he plans on sleeping.

Karl ran his first 5k or road race when he was in the 6th grade, it was Valpo's own Popcorn Panic, so Karl has been running for quite a while. Karl chose to run Cross Country, he said, "because of my friends running" and also because, "It's a great way to stay in shape".

Karl's favorite course to run is at the Culver Academy. He set his PR (personal record) there. His PR was 18:26. Culver is a favorite course for many of the team because it is a fun day for the team and it is considered a PR course. There are not to many obstacles on the course and only one hill to run up making it more likely to be able to set a PR. Culver is also where Valparaiso High School XC have their annual Tailgate Party enjoying the hospitality of the parents. The team also has the opportunity to watch their fellow teammates run as well as several other schools. Races are held all day from morning until afternoon. "Great job on your PR Karl"!!!

Before a race Karl has a unique choice of foods he likes to eat. Karl will get fettuccine alfredo from Chili's or prime rib from Old Style in downtown Valpo, but he says..."The combination is amazing"!!! His mom says "and it's expensive". Karl says "it is well worth it" and recommends it for everyone.

When Karl is training he prefers to run in winter, he said he prefers temperatures around 32 degrees. Winter running is coming up after season, perfect for Karl to keep on training for future 5K's or marathon's . I asked him if he ever thought he might run the Chicago Marathon, Karl said "at sometime".

Stay focused, keep training, you have your whole future ahead of you. Great job this year Karl!