Faith, tenacity, and discipline. These are just some of the words used to describe Joshua Sandi, this year’s Varsity MVP for the Cross Country team. Joshua Sandi, a senior at Leyden, has grown tremendously as a runner over his four years. As a sophomore, he didn’t take running seriously, but one race changed everything, sparking a drive that has guided him ever since. He now logs countless miles each week, running early before school, and later at practice; pushing himself to train harder than anyone else. His growth is a testament to what dedication, consistency, and self-discipline can achieve. Josh gives credit to his growth to a combination of his faith, his coaches, and the support of his teammates. Those things taught him the value of consistency and determination, lessons he now carries with him in every practice and race. “Ever since I saw my potential and how much talent I have in running, I always just have that drive to be the best in everything I do,” Josh explains. His commitment to improvement drives him to go above and beyond, chasing goals with unmatched focus. This drive shows not only in his speed but in his approach to training. Josh emphasizes the importance of persistence and staying consistent, no matter the challenges. “Be consistent in everything you do and don’t give up. Because if you have a dream or a goal in life, the harder you work for it and the more consistent you are, the closer you’ll get to it,” he states. This mindset has fueled his growth from a casual runner to the team’s best athlete in years. His hard work has led to moments that make all the early mornings and extra miles worth it. He reflects on one milestone that showed him how far he has come. “Recently, for the first time in my life, I ran a sub-16 three-mile race. Seeing that time really hit me and showed me how far I came,” Josh says, smirking as he remembers his 15:54 he ran at regionals. (just 2 days after the interview he crushed that pr, running a 15:37 at sectionals). Despite his talent Josh remains humble and remembers where this all started, “I remember sophomore year I wasn’t serious at all. I’d skip workouts and not push myself, but once I really committed, everything changed,” he admits. That turning point fueled the relentless drive he has now. To those who want to improve on themselves in any way, Josh says, “If you have a dream or a goal, the harder and more consistently you work for it, the faster and closer you’ll get to it. Don’t quit, because the finish line might be closer than it seems,” says Josh. “Running has taught me consistency, discipline, and the importance of never giving up. Those lessons apply to everything in life, not just running.” Joshua Sandi’s journey shows the power of perseverance and self-discipline and teaches you these things can take you further than you ever imagined, so to everyone trying to better themselves in any way, keep pushing towards the finish line everyday, you will succeed.